Lethbridge problem property searched, drugs seized

Lethbridge… Three people were arrested after ALERT conducted a drug trafficking investigation at a known problem property in Lethbridge. More than $100,000 worth of cocaine and methamphetamine was seized.

ALERT Lethbridge’s organized crime team made the seizure on July 12, 2023 after a total of four addresses were searched. Lethbridge Police Service, Coaldale RCMP, and Alberta Sheriff’s Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) team assisted with the investigation.

As result of the search warrants, ALERT seized the following evidence:

• 648 grams of cocaine;
• 619 grams of methamphetamine;
• 2,800 illicit cigarettes;
• Shotgun;
• Prohibited ammunition devices;
• $10,800 cash.

One of the homes searched, located in the area of Legacy Ridge, was known to be associated with drug trafficking and had generated a number of police calls for service and neighbor complaints. SCAN will be conducting an investigation and explore options through civil legislation to shut down the home.

“Drug trafficking harms communities in a variety of ways and that was certainly echoed by residents in this community. Police have fielded numerous complaints and we’re partnering with SCAN to develop a fulsome solution,” said Staff Sgt. Trevor Sheppard, ALERT Lethbridge.

Three people were arrested:

• Nicholas Galbraith, 37, was charged with possession of drugs for the purpose of trafficking and possession of property obtained by crime;
• Hope Pogue, 27, was charged with possession of drugs for the purpose of trafficking and possession of property obtained by crime;
• Greg Vredegoor, 31, was charged with was charged with possession of drugs for the purpose of trafficking, possession of property obtained by crime, and multiple firearms-related offences.

ALERT began its investigation in November 2022 in response to drug trafficking concerns.

SCAN uses civil legislation to target problem properties used for illegal purposes such as prostitution, drug use and trafficking, and gang activity. Residents who suspect illegal activity is occurring at a property in their neighbourhood can contact SCAN at 1-866-960-SCAN (7226).

Members of the public who suspect drug or gang activity in their community can call local police, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Crime Stoppers is always anonymous.

ALERT was established and is funded by the Alberta Government and is a compilation of the province’s most sophisticated law enforcement resources committed to tackling serious and organized crime.