London Male Charged with Importing Furanyl-fentanyl

(London, Ontario – Tuesday, November 8, 2016) - On Thursday, November 3, 2016 members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) London Detachment and Synthetic Drug Operations, Ontario Provincial Police Biker Enforcement Unit, London Police Service Guns and Drugs Section and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), arrested a London area male for importing Furanyl-fentanyl and possession of Furanyl-fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking.

As a result of a search warrant at a residence on Patann Drive in London, Ontario, Justin Donald Brown, age 28, has been charged with possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking contrary to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and importing a controlled substance contrary to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

On October 24, 2016, CBSA border services officers (BSO) at the Vancouver International Mail Centre intercepted a package from China destined for London, Ontario. During a routine inspection, BSOs examined a parcel weighing over 30 grams that was declared as “plastic bags.” An x-ray image of the parcel indicated suspected powder.  The parcel was alleged to contain 10 grams of Furanyl-fentanyl.  The CBSA alerted the RCMP and further investigation led to the search warrant and arrest.   

"The production of fentanyl laced drugs in clandestine labs can lead to fatal concentrations of illicit substances,” stated Inspector Joe Czenze, Officer in Charge of the London RCMP Detachment, “This is an excellent example of several law enforcement agencies working together to prevent the importation and trafficking of a dangerous substance in our community."

“Fentanyl and its derivatives pose a serious risk to public safety. The London Police Service will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to try to prevent this substance from becoming prevalent in London,” stated Chief John Pare of the London Police Service.

“This interception demonstrates how the CBSA continues to collaborate with the RCMP and other law enforcement partners in preserving the integrity of our borders and in keeping our country safe,” stated David Lee, Chief of Operations at the Vancouver International Mail Centre.

Justin Brown will make his next appearance at the London court house on November 25, 2016.