Two Arrested After Drugs and Firearm Seized in Lethbridge

Lethbridge… A short-term investigation in Lethbridge has landed two suspected drug dealers in police custody, with ALERT also seizing $20,000 in drugs and a firearm.

ALERT’s Lethbridge organized crime team made the seizure and arrests on May 24, 2018, after searching a home in the 300-block of 6A Avenue South. Lethbridge Police Service members provided assistance with the warrant execution.

Inside the home, investigators located an assortment of drugs valued at $20,000, along with a .30-calibre rifle. Drugs and other items seized included:

• ammunition and magazines;
• 132 grams of methamphetamine;
• 16.3 grams of suspected carfentanil;
• 8.3 grams of cocaine;
• 21 codeine pills;
• 4 mL hydromorphone; and
• $3,875 cash proceeds of crime.

RCMP’s National Weapons Enforcement Support Team provided assistance with the investigation and will continue to investigate the origins of the firearm. Neither of the suspects arrested possessed a valid firearms license.

“A gun in the wrong hands is an obvious public safety concern. This investigation came together quickly and we were also able to get some harmful drugs off the street,” said Staff Sgt. Jason Walper, ALERT Lethbridge.

Joel Sovdi, 31, has been charged with possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking (x 5); possession of proceeds of crime; breach of recognizance (x 4); and four firearms-related offences. Sovdi is prohibited from owning firearms as the result of a previous criminal investigation.

Jeremy Bertin, 37, has been charged with possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking (x 3); possession of a controlled substance; possession of proceeds of crime; and three firearms-related offences.

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. Members of Calgary Police Service, Edmonton Police Service, Lethbridge Police Service, Medicine Hat Police Service, and RCMP work in ALERT.

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