Impaired driving, drug trafficking charges laid after Timmins traffic stop

An undated promotional photo of a Timmins Police Service vehicle parked with its lights flashing. (File photo/Supplied/Timmins Police Service)

A 39-year-old Timmins man faces multiple charges after police say a traffic stop led to the seizure of more than $53,000 in suspected drugs.

Timmins Police Service said that at about 2:45 p.m. on April 16, a member of the traffic division observed an individual operating a motorcycle in the area of 741 Algonquin Boulevard East.

“The individual was known to police as being prohibited from operating any motor vehicle,” said police in a news release.

The police service said that during an interaction, the officer observed multiple signs of impairment and the indicators were consistent with drug impairment, as there was no evidence of alcohol consumption.

At about 3 p.m., the individual was arrested for impaired operation.

A drug recognition evaluation demand was issued, which the accused complied with.

Cash, drugs seized

During a search incident to arrest, officers located a large quantity of cash in the man’s possession.

“A further search of a backpack in his possession resulted in the seizure of a substantial quantity of suspected drugs, including fentanyl, crack cocaine and crystal methamphetamine,” said police.

Custody of the accused was then transferred to a certified drug recognition expert for further evaluation.

“The evaluating officer formed the opinion that the accused’s ability to operate a motor vehicle was impaired by drugs,” said police.

The seized substances included 252 grams of suspected fentanyl, 7.2 grams of suspected crack cocaine and 19 grams of suspected crystal methamphetamine.

“The estimated street value of the seized drugs amount to approximately $53,020,” said police.

The total cash seized in the search was $2,990, which police said they believed to be proceeds of crime.

Multiple charges laid

The man was charged with two impaired driving offences, three counts of drug trafficking and possession of proceeds of crime.

The accused was held for a bail hearing the following day, where he was remanded into custody.