By Liam Verster

Crime

Vehicle stop results in drug trafficking charges

Dec 13, 2019 | 2:16 PM

A vehicle stop in Clairmont last week resulted in a handful of charges, including drug trafficking, against two people.

On December 5, Grande Prairie Rural RCMP were patrolling an area identified as a criminal activity hot-spot, where they noticed a suspicious vehicle and conducted a traffic stop.

The male driver was in breach of conditions previously set by the courts, and he, along with the female passenger, were arrested.

During the arrest, officers noted items known to be associated with drug trafficking, and a search of the vehicle turned up 15 grams of methamphetamine, 2 grams of fentanyl, brass knuckles, two knives, and around $500 in cash.

Twenty-five year old Jesse Derksen is facing several charges, including:

• Two counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking
• Possession of ammunition contrary to order
• Five counts of failure to comply
• Driving a motor vehicle while unauthorized
• Operating a motor vehicle without insurance.

Twenty year old Shayanne Gross has been charged with Obstructing a peace officer.

Both Derksen and Gross were held for a Judicial Interim Release Hearing. Derksen was remanded into custody and appeared in court on Monday, December 9. Gross was released and was to appear in court on Wednesday, December 11.

The RCMP reminds the public to report any suspicious activities or crimes to them, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers.