Three individuals charged in Nipigon drug trafficking investigation

NIPIGON, ONTARIO – An in-depth investigation into drug trafficking in Nipigon has resulted in multiple charges against three individuals.

On May 29, 2024, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Community Street Crime Unit (CSCU), along with the OPP Northwest Region Emergency Response Team of Ontario and the North West Region K9 Unit of the Ontario Provincial Police, executed a search warrant on Harkness Street in Nipigon. This operation was part of an ongoing effort to combat the trafficking of drugs and other substances covered by the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) within the city.

As a result of the investigation, the following individuals were arrested and charged with multiple offenses under the Criminal Code of Canada and the CDSA:

Adrian Crawford, 52, of Nipigon:

• Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – Methamphetamine: This charge states that Crawford was found with methamphetamine, believed to be intended for sale rather than personal use. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.
• Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – Fentanyl: This serious charge suggests possession of fentanyl for the purpose of sale. A conviction could result in a maximum sentence of life in prison.
• Failure to comply with a release order (two counts): These charges indicate that Crawford violated conditions set by a court order, which could result in additional penalties, including jail time.

William Laird, 65, of Nipigon:

• Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – Methamphetamine: Indicates Laird was found with methamphetamine, likely intended for sale. The penalty if convicted can be up to life in prison.
• Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – Morphine: Suggests possession of morphine for sale, also punishable by a potential sentence of life in prison.
• Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000: This charge states that Laird possessed property obtained through criminal activity, punishable by penalties including fines and imprisonment.

Agnès Hardy, 37, from Nipigon:

• Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – Methamphetamine: Indicates Hardy was found with methamphetamine intended for sale, with a maximum sentence of life in prison.
• Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000: Suggests possession of property acquired through criminal activity, with potential fines and imprisonment.

During the investigation, officers seized suspected quantities of fentanyl, morphine and methamphetamine, as well as Canadian currency and other items associated with drug trafficking.

Crawford and Laird were held for a bail hearing. Hardy has been released and is scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice on May 2, 2024.

The Ontario Provincial Police are urging anyone with information regarding the possession and trafficking of illegal drugs to contact them at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

Meta Description: Three individuals are facing multiple charges after an investigation into drug trafficking in Nipigon led to significant arrests and seizures.