After an extensive investigation, that included the seizure of drugs and weapons, police have laid more than a dozen charges against a man.
It all started after the EPS Edmonton Drug and Gang Enforcement Unit (EDGE Unit) launched an investigation into the transportation and distribution of illicit drugs from Edmonton to the eastern provinces.
As part of the investigation, officers executed a number of search warrants on Thursday, October 4.
In all, two homes – one in the area of 90 Street and Jasper Avenue, and the other located near 42 Street and 139 Avenue – were searched, along with a storage locker in Sherwood Park.
The following items were seized:
- 2011 Ford Taurus (with modified compartments)
- About 2.5 kg of cocaine, estimated to be worth $250,000 on the street
- About 10 ounces of MDMA (Ecstasy), estimated to be worth $30,000 on the street
- Drug trafficking paraphernalia
- Two 9 mm handguns, and ammunition
- A live grenade
The EPS Bomb Unit had to be called in to inspect the grenade – it was later deemed safe to transport.
Finding the explosive device took investigators by surprise.
"To seize a grenade in an investigation like this is definetly outside the realm," EPS Detective Kevin Berge said. "I've never seen it before, and my fellow officers haven't either."
Now, Larry Warner, 29, is facing a number of firearm and drug-related charges, including possession of a restricted firearm, with ammunition readily accessible, possession of explosives for unlawful purpose, and possession for the purpose of trafficking.
The EDGE Unit is still investigating this case.
With files from David Ewasuk
