160 charges laid in Calgary drug investigation focusing on downtown core

A Calgary police cruiser is shown next to a downtown CTrain. (CPS handout)

Calgary police say a recent drug trafficking operation in the downtown core has resulted in 160 charges being laid.

“Recently, we have seen an increase in calls for service in relation to overdoses and activity consistent with drug trafficking occurring at several CTrain stations and in public areas in downtown Calgary,” police said in a Wednesday news release.

In response, police partnered with bylaw officers and Calgary Transit peace officers to address the ongoing safety concerns.

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Police say between April 22 and May 2, 29 people were charged with dozens of offences, including drug trafficking and possession.

Officers also seized several weapons including seven knives and an imitation revolver.

“The operation successfully targeted high-incident locations, arrested several drug traffickers, and aimed to support those arrested with resources for recovery,” said Staff Sgt. Lon Brewster.

Police said 97 per cent of those arrested had a history of trafficking-related charges, and 97 per cent were on a release pending trial or with conditions.

In addition, 79 per cent of arrestees had a prior criminal record, and 72 per cent of had a history of possession for the purpose of trafficking charges.

“Of the 29 people that we arrested, 28 of them had a previous history of trafficking a controlled substance – which is quite substantial if you think about it – so it just speaks to the need, from our service’s standpoint anyway, (for) bail reform and some judicial sort of improvements to be able to keep those recidivists or those repeat offenders in jail,” Brewster said.