(St. John’s, NL), February 13, 2023 – The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) Operational Patrol Services (OPS) charge two men, after seizing a large quantity of contraband cigarettes in Churchill Falls. The RNC are seeking the assistance of the public in locating wanted person, 34 year-old Justin ROBERTS, in connection to the offence.
On January 9, 2023, RNC OPS in Churchill Falls conducted a traffic safety stop. The driver was found to be operating the vehicle with a suspended license and no insurance. The vehicle was seized, and the driver was issued Summary Offence Tickets connected to the offence.
Upon seizing the vehicle under the Highway Traffic Act officers observed a large quantity of contraband cigarettes inside the vehicle.
As a result of the observations made by the officers, a search warrant was obtained and executed on January 19, 2023. The warrant resulted in the seizure of a large quantity of contraband cigarettes from the vehicle, totaling 109,800 cigarettes.
As a result of the investigation charges have been laid on two individuals.
On February 9, 2023, 26-year-old Alexander POWELL, of Corner Brook was arrested for Unlawful Possession of Tobacco. He was held to appear in court.
A warrant of arrest has been issued for 34-year-old Justin ROBERTS of Deer Lake, on charges of Unlawful Possession of Tobacco, Mischief, Identity Fraud and Breach of Release Order.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of ROBERTS is asked to contact the RNC or Crime Stoppers. Anyone with information regarding this, or similar incidents, is asked to contact the RNC at 729-8000 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). You can now provide information anonymously on the NL Crime Stoppers Website at www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app #SayItHere
- Please see attached photo of Justin ROBERTS
– 30 –
File # 23-1482
Cst. Jason Walsh #883
Media Relations and Public Communications
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
media@rnc.gov.nl.ca
(709) 729-8658
