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Items seized by police during a search on July 12, 2023. (Photo: ALERT, ALERT Lethbridge)

Three people charged as more than $100,000 worth of drugs seized by ALERT

Jul 21, 2023 | 1:13 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Three people have been charged following searches by ALERT.

Four addresses were searched on July 12, 2023 by ALERT Lethbridge’s organized crime team. The Lethbridge Police Service, Coaldale RCMP and Alberta Sheriff’s Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) team assisted with the investigation.

ALERT said officers seized the following:

  • 648 grams of cocaine
  • 619 grams of methamphetamine
  • 2,800 illicit cigarettes
  • A shotgun
  • Prohibited ammunition devices
  • $10,800 in cash

ALERT notes that one of the homes searched, in the Legacy Ridge area, was reportedly known to be associated with drug trafficking. Officials said it had generated multiple police calls for service and complaints from neighbours. A news release from ALERT noted that SCAN will investigate and explore options through civil legislation to shut down the residence.

Staff Sgt. Trevor Sheppard with ALERT Lethbridge said, “Drug trafficking harms communities in a variety of ways and that was certainly echoed by residents in this community. Police have fielded numerous complaints and we’re partnering with SCAN to develop a fulsome solution.”

ALERT began its investigation in November 2022.

Nicholas Galbraith, 37, has been charged with possession of drugs for the purpose of trafficking, and possession of property obtained by crime.

Hope Pogue, 27, has been charged with possession of drugs for the purpose of trafficking, and possession of property obtained by crime.

Greg Vredegoor, 31, has been charged with possession of drugs for the purpose of trafficking, possession of property obtained by crime, and multiple firearms-related offences.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

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