A sizable amount of drugs are off local streets after a pair of eventful traffic stops in Campbell River.
Over the past week, Campbell River RCMP made traffic stops for two different reasons, and both had unexpected results.
On June 2nd, a driver heading northbound through Oyster River was identified as possibly being impaired by an off duty officer.
Members from North Island Traffic, Integrated Road Safety, and Campbell River RCMP tracked down the driver and a roadside screening led to an impaired driving investigation.
Things got worse for the driver when officers uncovered large amounts of cannabis, as well as steroids and some other yet to be identified substances.
The driver could be facing charges of impaired driving, and several charges under the Cannabis Control and Licencing Act.
Then, on June 5th, a driver was stopped on Willis Road near Petersen Road for having expired licence plates.
Police also found that the driver also did not have a valid driver’s licence.
Further investigation led to the seizure of a substantial quantity of fentanyl and cocaine bound for the streets of Campbell River as well as several thousand dollars.
The Campbell River RCMP will be recommending charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Traffic for the passenger of the vehicle.
RCMP Constable Maury Tyre said that the police’s drug recognition experts have been busy lately.
“While most drug impairment charges have to deal with the use of illicit drugs, the public needs to be reminded that many legal or prescription drugs can cause impairment to driving,” he added.
“Prescription methadone and other prescription opioids make it extremely dangerous to operate a vehicle. Whether the substance is legally prescribed or not, drivers can still be charged if they are impaired.
“If you suspect someone is impaired behind the wheel, please call the RCMP or your local police force immediately. These calls can save lives.”
