Two Arrested in Longlac After Drug and Proceeds Seizure; Court Date Set

LONGLAC – REGIONAL CRIME – The Greenstone OPP Community Street Crime Unit (CSCU), with support from the Organized Crime Enforcement Branch and the Emergency Response Team, executed three search warrants under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) on Friday, August 22, 2025, around 5:00 p.m. One warrant at a Dieppe Road residence resulted in the arrest of two individuals and the seizure of illicit substances, proceeds of crime, and multiple firearms.

Charged:

• Joe NIEMAN, 50, of Longlac

  • Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking – Opioid (CDSA s.5(2))

  • Possession of Proceeds of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000 – in Canada (Criminal Code s.354(1), punishable per s.355(a))

• Ashley LUCAS, 43, of Longlac

  • Possession of Proceeds of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000 – in Canada (Criminal Code s.354(1), punishable per s.355(a))

Both accused were released and are scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Longlac on October 8, 2025.

What the Charges Mean & Potential Penalties (General Guidance)

Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Schedule I (Opioid) – CDSA s.5(2)

• Nature: Alleges possession of a Schedule I substance (e.g., opioid) with intent to traffic (sell, administer, give, transport, etc.).

• Penalties on conviction: Prosecuted by indictment, courts may impose up to life imprisonment (CDSA s.5(3)(a)). Sentencing considers aggravating factors such as involvement of weapons, organized crime, trafficking near schools/places frequented by youth, or prior drug-trafficking convictions. Courts can also order forfeiture of offence-related property and DNA orders where applicable.

• Notes: Mandatory minimums previously associated with some drug offences have been repealed; judges apply case law and proportionality based on facts.

Possession of Proceeds of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000 – Criminal Code s.354(1), s.355(a)

• Nature: Alleges knowing (or being reckless as to whether) that money/property was derived from criminal activity and possessing it.

• Penalties on conviction: A hybrid offence. If proceeded by indictment, maximum is 10 years’ imprisonment; on summary conviction, up to 2 years less a day and/or a fine. Courts may also order forfeiture of proceeds and related property.

• Notes: The “over $5,000” threshold engages the higher penalty range.

Important: The above outlines maximums and general principles. Actual sentences depend on the specific facts, prior record, aggravating/mitigating factors, and judicial discretion. The accused are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Call for Information

Anyone with information about the possession, manufacturing or trafficking of illegal drugs or firearms is asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or visit ontariocrimestoppers.ca.