DRYDEN, ON — A traffic stop in Dryden has led to major drug trafficking charges for two men—one from Dryden and one from Thunder Bay—after Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) seized suspected fentanyl, cocaine, and evidence of drug distribution, including Canadian cash.
On September 9, 2025, just after 2:30 p.m., the Dryden OPP Community Street Crime Unit (CSCU), with support from the local detachment, conducted a traffic stop on Van Horne Avenue. The investigation led to the arrest of Kelly CHARTRAND, 40, of Dryden, and Tyler MARION, 40, of Thunder Bay.
Criminal Charges and Possible Prison Sentences
Both are now facing multiple charges under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) and the Criminal Code of Canada, including:
Kelly CHARTRAND is charged with:
-
Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine
-
Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – fentanyl
-
Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000
If convicted, Chartrand could face up to life imprisonment for trafficking in Schedule I substances such as fentanyl and cocaine, which carry the most severe penalties under Canadian drug laws. Convictions for proceeds of crime charges can add additional fines or prison time, depending on the case.
He has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court on October 6, 2025.
Tyler MARION is charged with:
-
Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine
-
Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – fentanyl
-
Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000
-
Personation with intent to avoid arrest, prosecution or obstruct justice
-
Operation while impaired
-
Failure or refusal to comply with demand
Marion faces potentially decades behind bars, especially with the combination of drug trafficking, personation, and impaired driving. Personation with intent is an indictable offence, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Impaired operation offences could result in license suspensions, criminal records, fines, and imprisonment.
He remains in custody and is set to appear in court on September 12, 2025.
More Than Legal Consequences: Lasting Personal and Professional Impact
Beyond the potential for lengthy prison sentences, individuals convicted of drug trafficking face lifelong consequences that can deeply affect their personal and professional lives:
-
Criminal Records: A conviction for trafficking Schedule I substances results in a permanent criminal record, which can limit travel, especially to countries like the United States, and restrict access to professional licenses and government employment.
-
Reputation Damage: Being publicly named in a drug trafficking investigation can harm an individual’s reputation, strain personal relationships, and isolate them from their community.
-
Employment Consequences: Most employers conduct criminal background checks, particularly for jobs involving vulnerable populations, cash handling, or security. A drug trafficking conviction severely limits future employment prospects, even years after the sentence is served.
-
Housing and Insurance Impacts: Criminal records may affect rental applications, ability to secure a mortgage, or even result in higher insurance premiums.
These cases serve as a strong reminder of the long-term personal, legal, and social costs of becoming involved in the illegal drug trade.
OPP Encouraging Community Tips
The OPP continue to encourage the public to report suspected drug trafficking activities. Anyone with information is asked to call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122, or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
