By Geoff Smith (@GeoffSmithLNN on Twitter)

Possible carfentanil seized during Claresholm arrest

Feb 9, 2018 | 8:59 AM

CLARESHOLM – Police say it’s the first bust in the Lethbridge area to potentially involve a large amount of an opioid 100 times more powerful than fentanyl.

The ALERT Lethbridge Organized Crime and Gang Team arrested a 27-year-old Lethbridge woman outside a Claresholm business Wednesday, Feb. 7. Officers seized 114.5 g of a powder suspected to contain carfentanil. Lab tests will be required to confirm the presence of the drug.

In a news release, Staff Sgt. Jason Walper said it’s very troubling to see the drug turn up in the area.

“This is an extremely dangerous drug,” he said. “Even a tiny amount can be lethal. People need to be aware that it is present here and the damage it can do to the community.”

According to Alberta Health Services, carfentanil is used by veterinarians to tranquilize large animals. Protective gear is required due to the hazard posed by the drug. An amount less than a grain of salt can be fatal to humans.

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ALERT said a small amount of a different powder was also seized, along with a set of brass knuckles.

Samantha Hattersley is charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking, unauthorized and knowingly possessing a prohibited weapon, and carrying a concealed weapon. On Friday, (Feb 9) she was released on $200 cash bail and is scheduled to be back in court in mid March.