Police say suspected fentanyl, cocaine and methamphetamine were seized during a traffic stop

DRYDEN — Crime News — A drug trafficking investigation led by the Ontario Provincial Police Community Street Crime Unit, with assistance from the OPP Northwest Region Emergency Response Team and Dryden OPP members, has resulted in two arrests and multiple charges.

Police say that on Thursday, January 29, 2026, officers conducted a traffic stop as part of an ongoing investigation. Two people were arrested.

What police say was seized

According to police, the search and arrests resulted in the seizure of suspected fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine, along with cell phones, Canadian currency, and other drug paraphernalia.

Charges laid

Police say Noah Sheridan, 23, of Hamilton, is charged under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and the Criminal Code with:

• Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking (fentanyl)

• Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking (cocaine)

• Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking (methamphetamine)

• Possession of a prohibited device or ammunition for a dangerous purpose

• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000

• Fail to comply with a probation order

Police say Marvin Massie-Akey, 22, of Hamilton, is charged with:

• Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking (fentanyl)

• Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking (cocaine)

• Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking (methamphetamine)

• Possession of a prohibited device or ammunition for a dangerous purpose

• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000

Police say both accused were remanded into custody following bail court and are expected to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Dryden at a later date.

Potential penalties if convicted

Penalties depend on how the Crown proceeds, the facts proven in court, and the accused’s prior record (if any). Maximum penalties under federal law include:

• Possession for the purpose of trafficking (Schedule I substances): an indictable offence punishable by up to life imprisonment.

• Possession of a prohibited device or ammunition for a dangerous purpose: a hybrid offence; if prosecuted by indictment, the maximum is 10 years in prison.

• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000: a hybrid offence; if prosecuted by indictment, the maximum is 10 years in prison.

• Fail to comply with a probation order: a hybrid offence; if prosecuted by indictment, the maximum is 4 years in prison.

For offences prosecuted summarily, the general maximum (unless another penalty is set out in law) is up to a $5,000 fine and/or up to two years less a day in jail.

Court process and the presumption of innocence

It’s important to note these allegations have been laid based on an ongoing police investigation. Charges are not proof of guilt. The accused are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Recognizing suspected drug trafficking and reporting it safely

Drug trafficking investigations are complex, and innocent explanations can exist for unusual activity. If you’re concerned, focus on observations—not confrontation.

Possible indicators (not proof)

• Frequent short-stay visitors at odd hours (people arriving, staying briefly, leaving quickly)

• High turnover of vehicles, including ride-share-like drop-offs without clear purpose

• Exchanges that look like quick handoffs (items, cash) in driveways or parking lots

• Signs of a “business-like” operation: strict routines, lookouts, or frequent phone activity

• Discarded packaging (baggies), drug paraphernalia, or other suspicious waste nearby

How to gather information safely

• Do not confront anyone or attempt to “sting” suspects.

• Do not enter private property or trespass to obtain information.

• From a safe location, write down:

  • Dates/times of activity

  • Vehicle descriptions and licence plates

  • General descriptions of behaviour (what you saw, not assumptions)

• If you have home security footage, preserve it—but avoid handling suspected drugs (especially fentanyl), and don’t put yourself at risk.

How to report

• For emergencies or immediate danger, call 911.

• To contact the OPP (24/7), call 1-888-310-1122.

• For eligible minor incidents, the OPP offers an online reporting option.

• To remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers (Ontario tip line 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)) or submit a tip through the Ontario Crime Stoppers portal.

TAGS

Dryden, OPP, Community Street Crime Unit, Emergency Response Team, drug trafficking, fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, Schedule I, proceeds of crime, probation breach, Crime Stoppers, Ontario Court of Justice, Northwestern Ontario