THUNDER BAY – NEWS – On Monday night, Thunder Bay Police Service arrested four suspects after a traffic stop involving a suspected impaired driver. The incident, which took place in the city’s north-side, led to the discovery of various illicit substances and the apprehension of those involved in drug trafficking.
Police Surveillance and Traffic Stop
On Monday, Oct. 9, around 9:50 p.m., a Thunder Bay Police Service officer from the Primary Response Branch was patrolling the area near Cumberland Street South and Pearl Street. During routine surveillance, the officer noticed a vehicle being driven erratically. The driver made a left turn onto Red River Road, nearly colliding with a parked vehicle. Concerned, the officer initiated a traffic stop.
Upon interacting with the female driver, the officers observed multiple signs of impairment, leading to a more in-depth investigation.
Drug Seizure and Arrests
Further examination of the vehicle and its occupants resulted in the seizure of a significant quantity of crack cocaine, fentanyl, amphetamines, cash, and paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking activities.
The following individuals were taken into custody and transported to the TBPS headquarters at 1200 Balmoral Street:
- Biaggio Ben BONAZZA, 64, of Thunder Bay, is charged with:
- Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking (x2)
- Possession of Fentanyl for the Purpose of Trafficking
- Possession of Methylphenidate for the Purpose of Trafficking
- Possession of Proceeds of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000
- Failure to Comply with Probation Order
- Casie Ann Eugina MATHEWSON, 27, of Thunder Bay, is charged with:
- Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking (x2)
- Possession of Fentanyl for the Purpose of Trafficking
- Possession of Methylphenidate for the Purpose of Trafficking
- Katrina C MITAS, 30, of Thunder Bay, is charged with:
- Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking (x2)
- Possession of Fentanyl for the Purpose of Trafficking
- Possession of Methylphenidate for the Purpose of Trafficking
- Possession of Proceeds of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000
- Operation of a Motor Vehicle While Impaired – Alcohol and Drugs
- Operation of a Motor Vehicle While Prohibited
- Kelly Jean THOMAS, 37, of Thunder Bay, is charged with:
- Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking (x2)
- Possession of Fentanyl for the Purpose of Trafficking
- Possession of Methylphenidate for the Purpose of Trafficking
All four suspects appeared in bail court in Thunder Bay on Tuesday, Oct. 10. THOMAS was released with conditions and a future appearance date, while the other accused were remanded into custody for future appearance dates.
Criminal Code Charges and Penalties: A Warning to Potential Offenders
The charges these individuals face, including possession of illicit substances for the purpose of trafficking, carry severe penalties under the Criminal Code of Canada upon conviction, including substantial fines and imprisonment. This incident serves as a stern warning to those engaging in illegal drug activities in our community.
Seeking Help for Addiction: A Way Out
If you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction, help is available. Reach out to local support organizations, counselling services, or medical professionals for assistance. Overcoming addiction is possible with the right support and resources.
