Drugs, weapons seized from Toronto man in North Bay traffic stop

A North Bay traffic stop for a seatbelt violation has led to drug trafficking charges after police say the driver discarded fentanyl.

A routine traffic stop in North Bay led to drug trafficking charges for an 18-year-old Toronto man after police say he attempted to discard suspected fentanyl over the weekend.

North Bay Police Service officers conducted the traffic stop at about 1:45 p.m. on March 8 after observing a passenger without a seatbelt.

“During the stop, the accused exited the vehicle and was observed throwing an item a short distance away,” police said in a news release.

“Upon investigation, the item was suspected to be fentanyl.”

The man was taken into custody without further incident. A subsequent search revealed additional prohibited items, including illicit cannabis and an edged weapon.

Police seized controlled substances with an estimated street value exceeding $7,600, including 38 grams of fentanyl and 11 grams of illicit cannabis. Officers also confiscated $103 in cash.

Acting Insp. Richard Hampel emphasized the significance of the discovery, noting that even routine enforcement actions can yield substantial results in combating the drug trade.

“Every day, our members see the impact that fentanyl and other illegal drugs can have on individuals, families and our community,” Hampel said.

The accused faces multiple charges, including carrying a concealed weapon, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, unauthorized possession of a weapon, two cannabis possession offences, possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime and drug trafficking. He was also charged for failing to wear a seatbelt.

The Toronto man was held in custody pending a bail hearing.