A Drumheller man was sentenced to federal time for possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking.
The Mail reported in May 2021, Drumheller RCMP and the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team (ALERT) arrested two individuals and seized an estimated $50,000 worth of drugs. The investigation involved the execution of search warrants in Drumheller and Red Deer.
A press release at the time of the arrest noted the investigation was a concerted effort to disrupt the fentanyl market in Drumheller. It states the investigation began after Drumheller experienced a series of suspected fentanyl overdoses in late February 2021. While the investigations are not directly linked, ALERT believes the arrests will have an impact on the fentanyl supply in the region.
“Many Drumheller area community members have been devastated by the senseless acts of those trafficking in illicit drugs, including fentanyl. These initiatives resulted in another significant seizure of fentanyl from within our small community. Our teams will continue to work diligently, and are committed to proactively identifying these drug traffickers and conducting investigations into their activities, particularly those which have resulted in death,” says Staff Sergeant Ed Bourque, Drumheller RCMP Detachment Commander, at the time of the arrests.
Scott Painter of Drumheller was charged with possession of drugs for the purpose of trafficking, possession of proceeds of crime, failure to comply with release order, and six firearms-related charges. Painter is prohibited from possessing firearms due to previous convictions.
Last week the Mail learned Painter pleaded guilty to possession of fentanyl for the purposes of trafficking as well as breaches and firearm charges.
He was sentenced to seven years in prison.
