A joint investigation between the Southern Alberta Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) and the Hanna RCMP came to a conclusion today with the execution of a search warrant at a residence in the 300 block of 1st Avenue West. The investigation began in March.
The warrant was executed which resulted in the seizure of what is believed to be fentanyl and evidence to support trafficking.
Kristie Birchmore, 46 and Patrick Bell, 56, both from Hanna are facing a charge of possessing fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking contrary to Section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Both were brought before a Justice on Thursday, May 6 and were released on no cash release orders. Both are set to appear in court again on May 26, 2021 in Hanna.
RCMP say this is another example of the value of the Southern Alberta Crime Reduction Unit. They have provided vital services to the Hanna Detachment area since they were created including dismantling a copper theft group responsible for thefts in the Hanna rural area and disrupting drug trafficking within the town of Hanna in two investigations.
