Thunder Bay Police Drug Probe Leads to Cocaine, Pill and Cash Seizure

THUNDER BAY — NEWS – Thunder Bay Police say an Intelligence Unit investigation has led to drug-trafficking charges after officers searched a home on Algoma Street South and seized suspected cocaine, pills and cash.

Police Seize Drugs Valued at About $45,000

Police say the search was carried out on April 2, 2026, with assistance from the Thunder Bay Police Service Emergency Task Unit.

During the search, officers reported seizing more than 260 grams of suspected cocaine, 80 suspected Oxycodone-Percocet tablets, 329 suspected Nabilone capsules, more than $30,000 in cash and other items police allege are associated with drug trafficking.

Police estimate the total street value of the seized drugs at about $45,000.

A suspect was located and arrested during the investigation.

Charges Laid

Police say 40-year-old Cody Von Bargen of Thunder Bay is charged with:
Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000; possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking — cocaine; possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking — opioid; and possession of a Schedule II substance for the purpose of trafficking.

Police also say Von Bargen has been charged with aggravated assault in connection with an outstanding warrant.

The accused was remanded into custody following a first court appearance and is scheduled to return to court at a later date.

What the Charges Mean

Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 is covered under sections 354 and 355 of the Criminal Code. If prosecuted by indictment, the offence carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.

Possession for the purpose of trafficking is prosecuted under section 5 of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. For Schedule I or II substances, the maximum penalty can be life imprisonment, depending on the substance and circumstances.

Aggravated assault is covered under section 268 of the Criminal Code and applies where a person is alleged to have wounded, maimed, disfigured or endangered the life of another person. The maximum sentence is 14 years in prison.

Presumption of Innocence

None of the allegations have been proven in court. All accused persons are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.