Drug, assault charges
WELLINGTON NORTH – On March 22 at about 2:05pm Wellington County OPP investigated the occupants of a motor vehicle on Highway 6 here.
Police say that while speaking with the driver, the officer observed a clear baggy containing a white substance hanging partially out of the front pouch pocket of the passenger’s sweatshirt.
“The officer repeatedly asked the person to identify themselves however they refused, exited the vehicle and attempted to flee,” police stated in a press release.
“A foot pursuit ensued through a swamp while the suspect attempted to dispose of the drugs. After a brief struggle and with the assistance of the West Grey Police Service, the suspect was taken into custody.”
Police say officers conducted a search and seized a substantial amount of Canadian currency and a large quantity of crystal methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and baggies.
James Thorold Courtney, 41, of Kitchener, was charged with possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking, possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, assault with intent to resist arrest, obstructing a peace officer and failing to comply with a probation order.
He was held for a bail hearing.
More drugs, guns
FERGUS – On March 22 at about 8:20pm Wellington County OPP responded to a disturbance at a residence on Perry Street in Fergus.
Police say they also received information that a weapon was being brandished at the residence.
A police investigation at the residence resulted in the arrest of two individuals. Police say one person was arrested inside the residence and the other in the backyard after attempting to escape through a basement window.
A search of the residence resulted in police locating a loaded handgun and a quantity of suspected methamphetamine.
Bronsen James Pronk, 25, of Fergus, and Marko Shkilny, 25, of Toronto, were charged with: unauthorized possession of a firearm, careless storage of a firearm, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, knowledge of unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of a loaded prohibited or restricted firearm and possession of methamphetamine.
Shkilny was also charged with Fail to Comply with Probation Order.
Both men were held for a bail hearing.
Fraud prevention
ORILLIA – During the month of March, the OPP, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and the Competition Bureau of Canada promote public awareness to help prevent Canadians from becoming victims of fraud.
This year, the campaign highlights four mass marketing fraud priorities: spear phishing, romance scams, extortion and service scams.
Anyone who suspects they’ve been a victim of fraud, can contact their local police service and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre by phone or online.
