The Ottawa Police Service Street Crime Unit (SCU) identified a total of 52 people to be charged with drug trafficking and other related offences following a four month long undercover investigation focusing on both Rideau Street and the ByWard Market area in Ottawa.
“Project “Shadow” began with the goal to address public disorder issues along Rideau Street and the ByWard Market area in light of numerous public tips, complaints and police reports about drug activity,” said Staff Sergeant Sean Barrett Street Crime Unit/Break & Enter Team/Human Trafficking. “The Street Crime Unit targeted the illicit drug trafficking from February to May 2015. “
As a result of this investigation – and with the assistance of Central Neighbourhood officers – 52 people (45 male – 7 females) have been identified and are to be charged with 188 offences related to the trafficking of crack cocaine, prescription pills and marijuana.
The total value of the drugs seized is estimated at $31,000. Of the 52 identified persons, 34 were arrested to date and the remaining 18 offenders are still being sought by Ottawa Police. Warrants for their arrests will be issued accordingly in the coming days.
“The Ottawa Police Service will continue to investigate drug-related offenses in the Downtown core and ByWard area as part of one of many enforcement initiatives this spring and summer, ensuring a safe community for all,” added Staff/Sgt. Barrett.
The Street Crime Unit was created within the Ottawa Police in 2007 to specifically target the street level trafficking, which was increasingly having negative effects in our community.