Four Arrested in Grande Prairie Drug Busts

Grande Prairie… The execution of two search warrants in Grande Prairie last week has resulted in the arrest of four people and the seizure of a significant amount of drugs.

On Tuesday, May 2, ALERT’s organized crime and gang team in Grande Prairie executed the warrants on apartments in the Smith and Southview neighbourhoods. Members of the Grande Prairie and Peace River RCMP detachments provided assistance.

ALERT investigators seized 327 fentanyl pills, 26.7 grams of crack cocaine, four grams of crystal meth, 18 grams of marijuana, and more than $4,400 in cash.

“There has been quite a bit of awareness and education surrounding the dangers associated with fentanyl, so 327 pills being seized in one location ­– knowing that even one pill can pose a serious health risk to any individual – makes this a significant investigation,” says Staff Sgt. Pamela Robinson, acting officer in charge of regional teams for ALERT.

Youssouf Hassan, 59, and Sara Desjarlais, 25, were each charged with:

• possession for the purpose of trafficking (x2);
• possession of a controlled substance (x2); and
• possession of proceeds of crime.

Lemesa Rare, 55, was charged with:

• possession for the purpose of trafficking (x2);
• possession of a controlled substance; and
• possession of proceeds of crime.

Mulugata Mekonen, 46, was charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking and possession of a controlled substance.

ALERT’s investigation began in early 2017 after receiving information about drug trafficking in the region.

“It’s important to be proactive in disrupting and dismantling these criminal enterprises.” Robinson says. “It creates a component for education and awareness, and we can let communities know about the dangers associated to illegal street drug use.”

Notice to Media: Photos of goods seized are available for download: Photo 1 | Photo 2