The Calgary Police Service has charged five individuals and seized drugs, paraphernalia and cash after completing a week -long investigation in to a cocaine and marijuana trafficking and distribution operation.
One of the individuals charged in this file is considered a gang associate. He allegedly operated throughout the city supplying drugs to mid-level dealers.
On Thursday, March 5, 2009, at approximately 4 p.m., District 2 members conducted a traffic stop at a parking lot at Richmond Road and Signal Hill Centre S.W., resulting in the arrest of two people.
Nicholas Paul NEUMANN, 24, of Calgary, is charged with possession of property obtained by crime and possession of cocaine/crack for the purpose.
John Wesley HAWES, 25, of Calgary, is charged with possession of property obtained by crime and possession of cocaine/crack for the purpose.
A subsequent search was conducted on the vehicle, yielding 485 grams of cocaine (street value of approximately $48,500), $950 cash as well as other evidence relating to drug trafficking.
Shortly after, at approximately 4:12 p.m., members of District 1 conducted a traffic stop in the 800 block of 1 street S.W. where nearly 0.9 grams of cocaine (approximate street value of $90) were seized.
Chris Michel SWAIN, 33, of Calgary, is charged with possession of cocaine.
On Friday, March 6, 2009, at approximately 2 a.m., members of District 4 Special Duties Team (SDT) and members of the Tactical Unit completed a Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) search warrant on a residence in the 6600 block of Old Banff Coach Road S.W.
Ilia B KOSMAK, 21, of Calgary, was found inside the residence, along with his girlfriend, Billy Joan RENIVA, 20, of Chestermere.
Police conducted a thorough search of the residence, and located the following items:
• 1.265 kilograms of cocaine (approximate street value $126,500)
• 7.8 grams of marijuana (approximate street value $78)
• Indicia of drug trafficking including digital scales, numerous cellular phones and packaging
• $58,525 in cash packaged in predominantly $5,000 bundles
KOSMAK is charged with possession of cocaine/crack for purpose, possession of cannabis/marijuana/hashish for purpose, possession of property obtained by crime and production/manufacturing cocaine.
RENIVA is charged with possession of cocaine/crack for purpose, possession of cannabis/marijuana/hashish for purpose, possession of property obtained by crime and production/manufacturing cocaine.
After this warrant was executed, a search warrant was sworn to for the accused vehicle.
A search of KOSMAK’s vehicle yielded a loaded nine-shot Glock 27 modeled .40-calibre handgun. The weapon was found in a man bag along with various pieces of KOSMAK’s identification.
KOSMAK, who is considered a gang associate, is charged with several firearm-related offences.
Acting Staff Sergeant Ralph Veckenstedt will be available to speak with the media today, Tuesday, March 10, 2009, at 2 p.m., at the District 4 Office, 3207 12 Ave. N.E.
Seized items from this investigation will be on display at the availability.