Police seize drugs, weapons and puppies in Hamilton raid

Hamilton police say they've seized illicit drugs, weapons and several dogs believed to be part of an illegal breeding operation

Three people are facing numerous charges after a raid on a Hamilton dispensary led to the seizure of $210,000 worth of drugs and the discovery of a suspected “illegal dog breeding operation,” police say.

In March, a Hamilton Police Service task force began an investigation after receiving information that the business 4 Winds Medicine Lodge was involved in the “illegal sale of cannabis and other controlled substances” from a storefront located at 421 King St. East.

Police said the business is located near a school, daycare, shelter and several churches.

Following a search of the premises on April 16, officers seized drugs with an estimated street value of $210,000. Among the seizure were:

• 109 kilograms of cocaine
• 146 grams of methamphetamine
• More than 1,000 illicit prescription pills
• Two containers of GHB

Police say that officers also discovered “two operational labs believed to be used in the production of crack cocaine” as well as eight puppies and two adult dogs. Hamilton Animal Services took custody of the animals to ensure their well-being.

Police say investigators believe the animals are “part of an illegal dog breeding operation.”

A 46-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman, both from Hamilton, and a 46-year-old North York man were arrested. They are each facing multiple charges, including possession for the purpose of trafficking, possession of a prohibited weapon, possession of proceeds of crime and production of a Schedule I substance.