Two Arrested in Major Drug and Firearms Bust; Facing Multiple Criminal Charges
THUNDER BAY — A targeted investigation by the Thunder Bay Police Service’s Intelligence and Emergency Task Units culminated in the arrest of two individuals and the seizure of a loaded handgun, suspected cocaine and fentanyl, and cash on Thursday, May 1.
Officers executed a search warrant at a residence on Cumberland Street North, acting on intelligence related to suspected drug trafficking activities. Upon entry, police located and arrested Nicholas Louis Archibald, 40, and Veronica Kristen Rojik, 40.
Charges and Potential Penalties
Both suspects face multiple charges under the Criminal Code and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA):
Nicholas Louis Archibald
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Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose (Criminal Code s.88): Up to 10 years imprisonment.
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Unauthorized Possession of Firearm (s.91): Up to 5 years imprisonment.
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Knowledge of Unauthorized Possession of Firearm (s.92): Up to 10 years imprisonment.
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Possession of Loaded Prohibited or Restricted Firearm (s.95): Up to 10 years imprisonment.
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Careless Storage of Firearm (s.86): Up to 2 years imprisonment.
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Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine and Fentanyl) (CDSA s.5(2)): Up to life imprisonment.
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Possession of Proceeds of Property Obtained by Crime under $5,000 (s.354): Up to 2 years imprisonment.
Archibald was also arrested on an outstanding warrant for charges including assault, theft of a motor vehicle, mischief, and uttering threats.
Veronica Kristen Rojik
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Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine and Fentanyl) (CDSA s.5(2)): Up to life imprisonment.
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Possession of Proceeds of Property Obtained by Crime under $5,000 (s.354): Up to 2 years imprisonment.
Court Proceedings
Both individuals appeared in court on Friday and have been remanded into custody pending future court dates.
Community Impact
This operation underscores the ongoing efforts by Thunder Bay Police to combat drug trafficking and related firearm offences in the community. The seizure of fentanyl, a potent opioid linked to numerous overdose deaths, highlights the critical nature of such enforcement actions.
