The Gazette is running a follow up story about the Government cracking down on SMUGGLING
Blackburn’s announcement comes after an investigation by The Gazette revealing the contraband industry has roared back to life after being nearly eradicated in the 1990s when federal and provincial governments dealt it a blow by lowering taxes, pushing smokers back into legal stores.
Charge of possession:
Akwesasne Resident Charged for Possession of Contraband Tobacco
SOUTH GLENGARRY, ON, April 7 /CNW/ - William Buckshot, a 42 year old resident from Akwesasne, Ontario was charged for possession of a tobacco product not properly stamped under authority of the Excise Act 2001. On April 7th, 2009, an officer from the Ontario Provincial Police stopped a 2007 Dodge Ram pick-up truck on Highway 401 eastbound in South Glengarry, Ontario. Initially the driver did not pull over when the emergency lights were activated by the officer. After a short delay the driver pulled over. The officer approached the driver and observed cardboard boxes of contraband cigarettes inside the truck. Officers from the Cornwall RCMP Detachment were contacted to assist. RCMP officers seized 1,250 resealable bags of Discount brand cigarettes which are believed to have been manufactured in the United States and smuggled into Canada. The pick-up truck was also seized. William Buckshot was arrested and held for a bail hearing at the Cornwall court. He was also arrested on an outstanding warrant for failing to appear at court for a similar charge that occurred on July 2nd, 2008. "We continue to arrest repeat offenders who sometimes do not appear at court to face charges," said Sgt. Michael Harvey from the RCMP. "The RCMP will work with the interdepartmental community to identify current legislative regulatory control mechanisms that will further deter organized crime's
involvement in the illicit tobacco trade. The RCMP will also assess the viability of additional amendments to enhance government's ability to reduce the impact of the illicit trade and reduce its profitability." For further information: Sgt. Michael Harvey, RCMP Cornwall Detachment, (613) 937-2831
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