OPP estimates street value at ~$1 million in Cocaine
By NetNewsLedger Staff
Category: Regional Crime Reports
FORT FRANCES, Ont. — Two people are facing drug-trafficking charges after Fort Frances OPP stopped a vehicle for unusual driving behaviour at about 3:20 a.m. on Sunday, November 9, 2025. During the investigation, officers say they located 11 kilograms of suspected cocaine inside the vehicle, with an estimated street value of approximately $1,000,000.
Following further investigation, officers laid the following charges.
The Accused and Charges
Gail McRae, 59, of Winnipeg
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Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking — cocaine (Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, s.5(2))
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Possession of property obtained by crime — under $5,000 (Criminal Code, s.354/355(b))
Candice Yetman, 37, of Winnipeg
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Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking — cocaine (CDSA, s.5(2))
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Possession of property obtained by crime — under $5,000 (Criminal Code, s.354/355(b))
Both accused were held for bail and will appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Fort Frances at a later date.
Note: The allegations have not been proven in court. The accused are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
What the Charges Mean — and Possible Penalties
Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking — Schedule I (cocaine) (CDSA s.5(2))
Plain language: Police allege the cocaine was possessed to sell, distribute, or traffic, not for personal use.
Maximum penalty if convicted: Life imprisonment (indictable).
Sentencing notes: Courts consider drug type and quantity (11 kg is substantial), role in the operation, any weapons/violence, criminal record, and whether the offence endangered public safety. While prior mandatory minimums were repealed, significant quantities typically attract penitentiary-length sentences.
Possession of Property Obtained by Crime — Under $5,000 (Criminal Code s.354/355(b))
Plain language: Allegation of possessing money or goods knowing (or being reckless as to whether) they were gained through crime.
Maximum penalty if convicted: A hybrid offence. If the Crown proceeds by indictment, the maximum is 2 years; if summary, up to 2 years less a day and/or a fine.
Sentencing notes: Courts weigh the value of the property, the connection to other offences (e.g., drug trafficking), and the offender’s history.
Call for Information
If you have information about the trafficking of illicit drugs, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
If you want to make your community safer and drug free it starts with you reporting drug dealers.
