(WALPOLE ISLAND FIRST NATION, ON) – Four individuals are facing drug trafficking charges after a search warrant was executed on Walpole Island First Nation.
On October 18, 2024, members from the Lambton County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Lambton County Community Street Crime Unit (CSCU), Elgin-Middlesex CSCU, West Region OPP Tactics and Rescue Unit, OPP Emergency Response Team, OPP Canine Unit, OPP Forensic Identification Services, and Walpole Island Police Service, executed a search warrant at an address on Union Hall Road, Walpole Island First Nation.
Police seized a large quantity of suspected fentanyl and methamphetamine. Police also seized firearms, Canadian currency and other offence-related items.
The combined estimated value of the items seized is over $500,000.
Emerson SANDS, 33-years-old, Walter SANDS, 29-years-old, Donald PETERS, 58-years-old and Megan SHIPMAN, 25-years-old, all from Walpole Island First Nation, have been charged with the following:
· Careless storage of firearm, weapon, prohibited device or ammunition – two counts
· Possession for the purpose of trafficking – Methamphetamine
· Possession for the purpose of trafficking – Fentanyl
Emerson SANDS was further charged with:
· Possession of firearm or ammunition contrary to prohibition order – three counts
· Fail to comply with probation order
Donald PETERS was further charged with one count of Possession of firearm or ammunition contrary to prohibition order.
All four accused remain in custody after appearing before the Ontario Court of Justice in the City of Sarnia.
If you have any information that can help investigators, please contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or leave an anonymous online message at www.ontariocrimestoppers.ca where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000.