Vancouver drug advocates who distributed free drugs accused of trafficking

A British Columbia advocacy group known for distributing free drugs in 2021 is facing a legal battle as its founding members were charged with drug trafficking.

The Vancouver Police Department revealed it was closely monitoring the activities of the Drug Users Liberation Front, particularly after the group openly distributed controlled substances such as heroin, cocaine and methamphetamines.

DULF's decision, intended as a statement for drug policy reform, caught the attention of law enforcement and led to a year-long investigation.

As True North exclusively reports, former Vancouver city councilor Jean Swanson joined the group in distributing drugs in front of the Vancouver Police Department's Downtown Eastside detachment.

The investigation reached its peak in October when the VPD searched the group's headquarters and the homes of its founders, leading to their arrest.

The organization had previously been criticized for its financial practices, particularly regarding funding for its “compassion club program.”

This initiative involved the acquisition and testing of drugs for supposedly safe consumption by members, raising questions about the legality and transparency of funding sources.

The charges against Jeremy Kalicum, 28, and Eris Nyx, 33, have been confirmed by the Public Prosecution Service of Canada. Both face multiple charges related to drug possession for the purpose of trafficking.

Their court appearance is scheduled for July. In an interview with True North in July 2021, Nyx denied that drug funding came from organized crime.

“We’re not looking for money from organized crime,” Nyx said. “We try to do this as honestly as possible.”

The accusations sparked protests and outcry among party supporters, who say the arrests have exacerbated the overdose problem rather than solving it.

At a rally in November last year, speakers denounced the war on drugs and demanded systemic reforms.