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Two Lethbridge men facing weapons and drug charges

May 15, 2021 | 5:53 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB. — — The LPS Crime Suppression Team (CST) and Priority Crimes Unit (PCU) collaborated on a short-term investigation, which resulted in arrests on Thursday (May 13).

Officers conducted surveillance on two men in a vehicle downtown, with the driver known to have multiple driving prohibitions in place. After the suspects had parked, officers witnessed one of the men concealing a can of bear spray as they walked into Galt Gardens. With the assistance of patrol members and the Downtown Policing Unit, the two were arrested without incident.

Bear Spray and drugs seized — Photo credit to LPS

Police seized: 16.5 grams of fentanyl; 5.9 grams of methamphetamine; and 2.7 grams of psilocybin (mushrooms); two cans of bear spray; a folding knife; a collapsible baton, as well as a small amount of cash and paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking.

Anthony Douglas Johnston, aged 26, was charged with: two counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking; two counts of possession of a dangerous weapon; two counts of carrying a concealed weapon; and four counts of operating a motor vehicle while prohibited.

Brendan James Taylor, 24, was charged with: three counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking; two counts of possession of a dangerous weapon; two counts of carrying a concealed weapon; and four counts of failing to comply with release order conditions.

Both men remain in custody to appear in court May 17, 2021.