Stay informed with the LNN Daily Newsletter
A drug house in south Lethbridge has been shuttered. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

Drug house in south Lethbridge shut down

Sep 4, 2024 | 11:17 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – For the second time in two weeks, the Alberta Sheriffs have closed a known drug house in Lethbridge.

The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) Unit has obtained a court order against the owner of 4518 28 Avenue South.

The SCAN unit has received 13 complaints of drug activities on the property since June 20, 2022.

On June 6, 2024, the Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) searched the home and seized 81 grams of fentanyl, three stolen motorcycles, and other stolen property.

On July 31, 2024, the RCMP confiscated small amounts of methamphetamine, two smoke hand grenades, and a loaded rifle.

Alberta Sheriffs Deputy Chief Greg Medley says the closure will help to keep everyone in Lethbridge safe.

“Shutting down problem properties like this helps to eliminate illegal activity in our province. SCAN, in collaboration with law enforcement partners like the Lethbridge Police Service, will continue to use every tool at its disposal to keep Alberta communities safe,” says Medley.

The order gives the authority to close the property for 90 days, starting at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 4, 2024.

All tenancy agreements and leases are terminated and everyone much vacate the premises.

The property has been boarded up, fenced, and the locks have been changed. The property will reopen on December 3, 2024.

The community safety order also imposes additional conditions that will remain in effect until August 21, 2026. The owner will be required to prevent further drug-related activities from occurring at the property.

LPS Chief Shahin Mehdizadeh says he is grateful for the SCAN unit’s support in their efforts to tackle crime.

“Creating a safer environment for our citizens improves the overall quality of our community. SCAN does great work shutting down problem properties where illegal activities are taking place. We’re really thankful for their efforts and we look forward to continuing to work with them to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents,” says Mehdizadeh.

On August 22, the SCAN unit closed a different home on the north side for similar reasons.

READ MORE: North Lethbridge drug house shut for second time this year

If you have a news tip, question or concern, please email Lethbridge.newsroom@Pattisonmedia.com.