A drug seizure on the Trans-Canada east of town resulted in the exposure of two police officers and a tow truck operator to potentially hazardous materials leading to their decontamination by Fire Rescue personnel and hospital treatment.
Staff Sgt. Kurt Grabinsky, commander of the Revelstoke detachment, said in a statement that this episode began on Saturday, May 24, when an RCMP investigator with the Trans-Canada East Traffic Services unit stopped a speeding white 2003 Toyota Tacoma.
“The lone male occupant of the vehicle, age 34, and resident of Vancouver, was arrested as a result of the discovery of a large quantity of several types of illegal drugs,” he said.
“During the course of the investigation two police officers and the tow truck operator were exposed to potentially hazardous materials. Actions were taken to secure the vehicle and to sanitize all areas that may have been affected. Personnel were decontaminated by the Revelstoke Fire Department and transported to the Queen Victoria Hospital by BC Ambulance Service where they were treated and released.”
Grabinsky said the drugs seized included methamphetamine, marijuana, cocaine, crack cocaine, prescription pills, gamma hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), MDMA and psilocybin (magic mushrooms).
They also seized drug paraphernalia and chemical production materials. The street value of all the materials seized is estimated at about $84,000. In addition a quantity of cash, a firearm and bear spray were seized. The Toyota Tacoma was impounded.
“A specialized RCMP team arrived from Vancouver to assist with the investigation, address the risks of the various present chemicals and ensure all contaminated areas were safe and secure,” Grabinsky said. “All the highly dangerous chemicals were removed utilizing an environmental services company.”
The driver of the impounded pickup has been released and will be facing charges of possession for the purpose of trafficking charges in Revelstoke with a court date in September. Several Violation Tickets (Excessive Speed, Driving without Due Care and Drive Contrary to Restrictions). The man was also issued a 24-hour driving suspension due to drug impairment and a four-month Driving Suspension. More Criminal Code charges may be forthcoming, Grabinsky said.
“The Revelstoke RCMP wish to thank all the agencies, specialized units and companies who provided their support and expertise during this investigation,” he said.
