A Police Operation Leads to the Arrest of Tobacco Smugglers in Saint-Anicet
Valleyfield, September 2, 2009 – Last August 31, Central St. Lawrence Valley RCMP Detachment – Valleyfield Office investigators took part in a police operation on the shore of Lake Saint-François in Saint-Anicet. The raid resulted in the seizure of 1669 kilograms of contraband tobacco and the arrest of nine suspects.
The operation also involved the participation of the RCMP Emergency Response Team, Police Dog Services and Air services. In addition to contraband tobacco, the police seized four vehicles, a trailer and two boats used by the smugglers.
All nine suspects are charged with possession of tobacco products not stamped in accordance with the Excise Act, 2001. They could also face charges under the Tobacco Tax Act.
The accused are:
| Karlie Goodleaf | 36 | Kahnawake |
| Cory Diabo | 28 | Kahnawake |
| Stuart Phillips | 41 | Kahnawake |
| Phillip Jacobs | 49 | Kahnawake |
| Jordan Fiske | 19 | Akwesasne |
| Lawrence Roundpoint | 27 | Akwesasne |
| Gordon Jacobs | 27 | Akwesasne |
| John Robertson | 36 | Kahnawake |
| Phillip Lazore | 26 | Akwesasne |
It is illegal to possess or sell tobacco products that are not packaged or stamped as required by Canadian law. In an effort to reduce demand, the RCMP uses various methods to raise public awareness of the consequences of buying contraband tobacco products. The illicit tobacco trade presents a serious and growing threat to public safety and health in Canada. People need to be aware that they are funding criminal activity when they purchase contraband tobacco products.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police encourages citizens to report any information on suspected illicit activities by individuals or groups of individuals to the investigators of the RCMP Valleyfield Office at 450 377-3223, or to Info-Crime Québec at 1 800 711-1800. All tips will be kept confidential.
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