2 Arrested, Firearms and Over $1,100,000 in Illicit Drugs Seized in Project MENACE
22-34679
Through funding provided by the Government of Ontario, Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario supported Project MENACE which was a Brantford Police Services joint investigation with the Six Nations Police Service, further assisted by the Guelph Police Service Tactical Response Unit and the Ontario Provincial Police Tactical Response Unit.
A two-month long drug investigation commenced in early fall of 2022, involving several suspected drug dealers engaged in trafficking cocaine and fentanyl within the City of Brantford and throughout Southwestern Ontario.
In the early morning hours of Thursday, November 17, 2022, the Brantford Police Service executed six Controlled Drugs and Substances Act Search Warrants.
Brantford Police Service executed a Search Warrant at a residence located on Diana Avenue, Brantford. Ontario Provincial Police Service Tactical Response Unit assisted with entry into the residence. Upon search of the residence, police located and seized the following items:
- 1,619 grams (approx.) of suspected Crystal Methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $242,850
- 942 grams (approx.) of suspected Cocaine with an estimated street value of $94,200
- Loaded Taurus .38 handgun with extended magazine (prohibited firearm)
- Large quantity of Canadian currency
Brantford and Six Nations Police Service’s simultaneously executed a Controlled Drugs and Substances Act Search Warrant at a residence located at St. George Street, Brantford. Members of the Brantford Police Emergency Response Team (ERT), Criminal Intelligence Unit, K9 Unit and Patrol Unit all assisted with entry. Upon search of the residence, police located and seized:
- 1,986 grams (approx.) of suspected Fentanyl, with an estimated street value of $810,000
- 85 grams (approx.) of suspected Cocaine, with an estimated street value of $8,500
- Loaded 9mm Glock handgun with laser site (restricted weapon).
- Canadian currency
Brantford police simultaneously executed a Search Warrant at a residence located on Grey Street, Brantford. The Guelph Police Service Tactical Response Unit assisted with entry into the residence. Upon search of the residence, police located a small amount of prescription medication.
Brantford and Six Nations Police Service’s simultaneously executed another Controlled Drugs and Substances Act Search Warrant at a premise on Papple Road in the County of Brant. Members of the Brantford Police Tactical Intelligence Generated and Enforcement Response Unit (T.I.G.E.R) and Six Nations Police Drug Unit searched the premise and located the following within two motor vehicles:
- 111 grams (approx.) of suspected Crystal Methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $16,600
- 182 grams (approx.) of suspected Cocaine with an estimated street value of $18,200
As a result of Project MENACE, an estimated total street value of $1,178,310 of illicit drugs, two loaded handguns, a switch-blade knife, two motor vehicles, an estimated $200,000 worth of jewelry and prescription medication were seized. Two men from Brantford have been charged with a number of offences:
Colton DENNIS, 27, of Brantford, stands charged with the following:
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (methamphetamine)
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (cocaine)
- Unauthorized possession of a firearm (prohibited), contrary to the Criminal Code
- Careless storage of a firearm, contrary to the Criminal Code
- Knowledge possession of an unauthorized firearm contrary to the Criminal Code
- Possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm with ammunition, contrary to the Criminal Code
Ryan FORBES, 24, of Brantford, stands charged with the following:
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (methamphetamine)
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (fentanyl)
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (cocaine)
- Unauthorized possession of a firearm (restricted), contrary to the Criminal Code
- Careless storage of a firearm, contrary to the Criminal Code
- Tampering with serial number contrary to the Criminal Code
- Knowledge possession of an unauthorized firearm contrary to the Criminal Code
- Possession of a firearm with altered serial number contrary to the Criminal Code
- Possession of a prohibited of restricted firearm with ammunition, contrary to the Criminal Code
- Possession firearm contrary to prohibition order, contrary to the Criminal Code
- Breach recognizance order, contrary to the Criminal Code
Project MENACE is another successful joint project helping to minimize the threat to our communities caused by the distribution of controlled substances, including firearms. By disrupting the operation of criminal networks, our goal is to assist our communities by reducing the violence surrounding the trade of illicit substances.
"I am extremely proud of the excellent work and collaboration demonstrated by the Brantford Police Service and the Six Nations Police Service. This investigation has resulted in removing over $1,000,000 in illegal drugs, firearms from our community – the largest seizure of its kind thru a BPS and SNP led investigation. I would also like to thank our policing partners and agencies, Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario, Brantford Police Services, Six Nations Police Service, Ontario Provincial Police, and Guelph Police Service for their assistance,” stated Chief Rob Davis, Brantford Police Services.
In support of the search warrants and arrests related to Project MENACE, the Brantford Police Service would like to recognize the Criminal Intelligence Service of Ontario, Six Nations Police Service, Guelph Police Service Tactical Response Unit and K9 Unit, OPP West Region Emergency Response Team.
Anyone with information on any other drug-related activities is asked to contact the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-0113 ext. 2286.
Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous are asked to contact Brant- Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at: https://www.crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
Public Safety in Partnership with the Community
CRIME BRIEF: November 17, 2022
Type: Road Rage / Assault
Incident: 22-46972
Location: Lynden Road
On Tuesday, November 15, 2022, at approximately 8:00 A.M., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to attend a road rage incident that occurred in the area of Wayne Gretzky Parkway and Lynden Road.
Investigation revealed that the victim and the accused had been travelling eastbound on Highway 403 in separate vehicles, both exiting at Wayne Gretzky Parkway.
The accused is alleged to have been driving in an aggressive manner, cutting the accused off several times.
The victim arrived at a Lynden Road location, as did the accused.
A verbal dispute occurred between the two men. The dispute escalated to physical violence when the accused is alleged to have punched the victim in the face.
As a result, a 31-year-old man from Brant County stands charged with Assault contrary to the Criminal Code.
Type: Robbery
Incident: 22-46937
Location: Colborne Street
On Monday, November 14, 2022, at approximately 11:00 P.M., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to attend a robbery at a convenience store located at Colborne Street and Rawdon Street.
A report was received to advise police that a man had entered the store, brandished a knife, and demanded money from the store employee before leaving on foot.
Officers attended and located the accused nearby. The accused was arrested. Search incident to arrest located the knife alleged to have been utilized in the incident.
No physical injuries were received by the victim as a result of the incident.
As a result, Brendan REANSBURY, 18, of Brantford, stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Robbery
- Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose
The accused was held for bail.
Type: Impaired
Incident: 22-46556
Location: Colborne Street
On Saturday, November 12, 2022, at approximately 2:00 A.M., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to a Colborne Street location after receiving a report to advise of a possible impaired driver.
Officers attended, located the suspect vehicle, and conducted a traffic stop at Stanley Street near Darling Street.
Speaking with the driver, officers observed signs of intoxication.
The accused provided a sample of breath for a roadside breath demand, which registered a fail. He was then arrested and transported to provide suitable samples of breath. Both samples were over twice the legal limit.
As a result, a 32-year-old man from Ohsweken stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Operation While Impaired
- 80 Plus contrary
Additionally, the vehicle was impounded and the driver’s licence of the accused, suspended.
BPS seek two suspects wanted in commercial robbery
22-46644
The Brantford Police Service are actively investigating a pharmacy robbery and are seeking information from the public.
On Saturday, November 12, 2022, at approximately 5:30 p.m., officers with the Brantford Police Service responded to a commercial robbery that had just occurred at a pharmacy located in the area of Terrace Hill Street and St. Paul Avenue.
Police learned the suspects entered the store, assaulted the employees, and obtained an unknown quantity of property and then fled the scene. The employees were not physically injured during the robbery.
Police are actively seeking two suspects, which were described as follows:
Suspect #1:
Male, black, approximately 6'0" tall, wearing a black, puffy winter jacket, white shoes, black balaclava, black pants, and blue gloves.
Suspect #2:
Male, black, approximately 5'5" tall, wearing a black jacket, black balaclava, black shoes, black pants, and blue gloves.
Anyone who may have information related to the incident is asked to contact Detective Ryan Groen of the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050 ext. 2206.
Information can also be provided anonymously to Brant - Brantford Crime Stoppers by calling 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477 or by submitting a web tip online at: https://www.crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
Public Safety in Partnership with the Community
CRIME BRIEF: November 11, 2022
Type: Impaired
Incident: 22-46272
Location: Market Street
On Thursday, November 10, 2022, at approximately 12:30 A.M., patrol officers with the Brantford Police Service received a driving complaint from a concerned citizen regarding a possible impaired driver in the area of Market Street and Nelson Street.
Officers located the suspect vehicle and conducted a traffic stop.
Speaking with the driver, officers observed signs of impairment and open alcohol containers in clear view and within reach of the driver.
The accused was found to be a novice driver and in violation of the terms of the G2 licence. The accused was unable to provide proof of insurance as well as the vehicle registration as required by law.
The accused was transported in order to provide samples of her breath as required by law. Both samples were over the legal limit.
As a result, a 24-year-old female from Brantford stands charged with the following:
- Operation While Impaired - Blood Alcohol Concentration, contrary to the Criminal Code
- Novice Driver - B.A.C. Above Zero, contrary to the Highway Traffic Act
- Driving Motor Vehicle with Liquor Readily Available, contrary to the Liquor Licence Control Act
- Fail To Surrender Insurance Card, contrary to the Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act
- Fail To Surrender Permit for Motor Vehicle, contrary to the Highway Traffic Act
Additionally, the vehicle was impounded and the driver’s licence of the accused, suspended.
Type: Robbery
Incident: 22-46079
Location: King George Road
On Tuesday, November 8, 2022, at approximately 2:30 P.M., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to attend a robbery at a retail store located at King George Road and Powerline Road.
It was reported that the accused left the store with a shopping cart full of items, making no attempt to pay. As store security stopped the accused, it is alleged that the accused brandished a knife towards the victim.
The accused fled the scene on foot and was located by officers in a nearby residential backyard.
Physical injuries were not sustained by the victim.
Investigation revealed that the accused was in violation of a valid undertaking.
The accused was arrested and as a result of the incident, a 27-year-old man from Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Attempt Robbery
- Assault
- Failure to Comply with Undertaking
The accused was held for bail hearing.
Type: Assault
Incident: 22-46028
Location: Market Street
On Tuesday, November 8, 2022, at approximately 8:30 A.M., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to a financial institution located on Market Street, regarding an unwanted person.
It was reported that the accused was in the entrance and was asked to leave by the victim, who was an employee of the business. The accused became confrontational and spat multiple times on the victim.
The accused was in possession of a rock and postured aggressively towards the victim as though he was going to throw or strike the victim with the rock.
As a result of this investigation, a 46-year-old man from Brantford, stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Assault
- Assault with a Weapon
Release of High-Risk Offender: Eugene SOUCY
Eugene SOUCY, 59, was convicted for the following offences which occurred between 1998 and 2013:
- Prostitution of Person Under 18 x 3
- Overcome Resistance - Administer Drugs
- Sexual Interference Person Under 16
- Fraud Under $5000 x 18
- Theft under $5000
- Fraud Over $5000 x 2
- Sexual Assault x 2
- Fail to comply x 2
- Cause person to use forged document x 2
- False Pretenses under $5000 x 8
- Personation with intent to gain advantage
- Theft over $5000
Described as a white male, 5’9”, 159 lbs., SOUCY has completed his sentence and is currently residing in the City of Brantford.
Current terms of his release include the following:
- Prohibited from attending a public park or public swimming area where persons under the age of sixteen years are present or can reasonably be expected to be present, or day care centre, school ground, playground, or community centre
- Seeking, obtaining, or continuing any employment, whether or not the employment is remunerated, or becoming or being a volunteer in a capacity that involves being in a position of trust or authority towards persons under the age of sixteen years
The Brantford Police Service Violent Repeat Offender Investigator believes SOUCY poses a high-risk to reoffend or breach his terms of release.
If members of the public observe SOUCY breaching any of the terms of his release, please do not approach, but call 9-1-1.
The victims involved in prior incidents have been notified of his release.
The Brantford Police Service is issuing this information and public advisory after careful consideration of all related issues, including privacy concerns, in the belief that it is clearly in the public interest to inform members of the community of the release of SOUCY.
This public safety advisory has been issued under the authority of Regulation 265/98 of the Police Services Act, which allows for disclosure of personal information about an individual if it is reasonably believed that the individual poses a significant risk of harm to other persons or property and believes that such disclosure would reduce that risk.
Public Safety in Partnership with our Community
21-year-old man arrested after pointing firearm in road rage incident: Handguns and $15,655 in illicit drugs seized
22-46126
On Tuesday, November 8, 2022, at approximately 8:45 P.M., officers with the Brantford Police Service responded to firearm related call in the area of St. Paul Avenue and King George Road.
Police were provided information that a road rage incident had occurred between two men, resulting in the accused pointing a firearm at the victim.
No physical injuries were sustained as a result of the incident.
Officers attended the scene. The accused was located and arrested.
Search incident to arrest located the following:
- Two loaded handguns with prohibited magazines and tampered serial number
- Knife (determined to be a prohibited weapon)
- Drug paraphernalia
- Quantity of Canadian currency
- Approximately 100 grams of suspected crystal methamphetamine, with an estimated street value of $12,000
- Approximately 33.7 grams of suspected psilocybin, with an estimated street value of $330
- Approximately 10.5 grams of suspected fentanyl, with an estimated street value of $2,625
- Approximately 7 grams of suspected cocaine, with an estimated street value of $700
The total estimated street value of drugs seized was $15,655.
As a result of the investigation, Jack CONWAY, 21, of Brant County stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Assault with a Weapon
- Pointing a Firearm
- Using a Firearm in a Commission of an Offence
- Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose
- Careless Use of a Firearm x 7
- Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm (Restricted Firearm) x 2
- Possession of a Prohibited or Restricted Firearm with Ammunition x 2
- Tampering with a Serial Number
- Possession of Prohibited Weapon (knife)
- Knowledge of Unauthorized Possession x 2
- Possession of a firearm with altered Serial Number
- Transport Firearms x 2
- Unauthorized Possession in a Motor Vehicle x 6
Additionally, CONWAY stands charged with the following under the Controlled Drugs and Substance Act:
- Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking a Schedule I Substance x 3
- Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking a Schedule II Substance
The accused was held for a bail hearing.
Public Safety in Partnership with the Community
CRIME BRIEF: November 8, 2022
Type: Impaired
Incident: 22-45878
Location: Colborne Street
On Monday, November 7, 2022, at approximately 1:00 A.M., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched after receiving a call to report a possible impaired driver in the area of Colborne Street and Clarence Street.
Officers attended the area and located the suspect vehicle. A traffic stop was conducted.
Speaking with the accused, officers observed signs of impairment.
The accused was arrested for impaired operation and transported to provide samples of breath as required by law. Both samples provided were in excess of the legal limit.
As a result, a 36-year-old female from Hamilton, stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Operation While Impaired
- 80 Plus
Additionally, the vehicle was impounded and the driver’s licence of the accused, suspended.
Type: Weapons
Incident: 22-45836
Location: Murray Street
On Sunday, November 6, 2022, at approximately 5:30 P.M., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to attend a weapons related call at a location near Murray Street and Grey Street.
A report was received to advise that a man was observed by witnesses to have brandished a firearm.
Officers attended the scene and located the accused.
The accused was taken into custody without incident.
The accused was found to be in possession of a hunting rifle style pellet gun.
No injuries were sustained by any witnesses.
As a result, a 57-year-old man from Brantford stands charged with the following:
- Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose, contrary to the Criminal Code
Type: Impaired
Incident: 22-45715
Location: Rawdon Street
On Saturday, November 5, 2022, at approximately 6:00 P.M., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to attend a call for service involving a possible impaired driver in the area of Rawdon Street and Nelson Street.
A report was received to advise that a possible impaired driver was driving erratically, struck a parked car and failed to stop.
Officers attended and located the accused and the suspect vehicle, which had sustained damage.
Speaking with the accused, officers observed signs of impairment.
The accused was arrested and transported to provide samples of breath as required by law. Both samples were over twice the legal limit.
As a result of the incident, a 59-year-old man from Brantford stands charged with the following:
- Fail to Remain, contrary to the Highway Traffic Act
- Operation While Impaired, contrary to the Criminal Code
- 80 Plus, contrary to the Criminal Code
Additionally, the vehicle was impounded and the driver’s licence of the accused, suspended.
Type: Impaired
Incident: 22-44971
Location: Park Road North and Dunsdon Street
On Friday, November 4, 2022, at approximately 9:40 P.M., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to attend the scene of a single motor vehicle collision at the intersection of Dunsdon Street and Park Road North.
Officers arrived on scene and located the accused, who was demonstrating signs of impairment.
The accused was arrested for impaired operation and transported to provide samples of breath as required by law.
Both samples provided were in excess of the legal limit.
The accused sustained minor physical injuries from the collision and did not seek medical attention.
As a result, a 56-year-old man from Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Operation While Impaired
- 80 Plus
Additionally, the vehicle was impounded and the driver’s licence of the accused, suspended.
Brantford Police Service Kicks Off Crime Prevention Week
The Brantford Police Service today kicks off Ontario’s annual Crime Prevention Week, which runs from November 6 to 12, 2022. The Provincial Crime Prevention Week is supported by the Ontario Association Chief’s of Police (OACP), the Ministry of the Solicitor General, and police services across Ontario.
The theme for this year’s Crime Prevention Week is: Safer. Stronger. Together. Community safety and well-being takes hard work and collaboration. Our front-line police officers and police personnel of the Brantford Police Service work in collaboration with citizens, other first responders, members of government, business, and other community leaders to promote community safety. Crime prevention involves all of us working together to make our homes, neighbourhoods, and workplaces healthy and safe.
"Crime prevention is a key priority of the Brantford Police Service. That is why, during Crime Prevention Week, we look forward to highlighting many of our collaborative programs that help to build a safer, stronger community. We encourage citizens to get involved, because by working together, we all benefit.”
– Robin Matthews-Osmond, BPS Corporate Communications Manager.
Throughout the week, the BPS social media feeds will highlight several of our community programs including the Citizens on Patrol program which is currently recruiting community members.
Be sure to like and follow @BrantfordPoliceService on Facebook and @BrantfordPolice on Twitter for the most up-to-date information.
Citizens on Patrol
The Brantford Police Service Citizens on Patrol (COP) program is recruiting community members who want to get involved to help make a positive difference in their community.
Citizen on Patrol volunteers are goodwill ambassadors whose main purpose is to observe and report any suspicious behaviour. By promoting community safety, the Citizens on Patrol volunteers provide a visible presence while fostering partnerships with police, local businesses, and residents to identify and expand opportunities to deter criminal activity and reduce crime.
Volunteers will receive comprehensive training provided by officers of the Brantford Police Service and will be provided a uniform to wear while on patrol.
Activities include vehicle patrols, foot patrols, and attending public events to represent the unit and promote community involvement.
The mission of the COP Unit is to be non-intrusive, trained civilian eyes and ears of the Brantford Police Service to contribute to the overall safety and wellness of Brantford.
This program does not promote, require, or ask for any involvement of members in the apprehension of criminals. The sole purpose of this unit is strictly to observe and report suspicious behaviour.
We are looking for mature, community-minded adults who represent a wide-range of ages, occupations, and reason for participating. Security checks will be completed before selection of the participants and valid photo identification is also required.
Members from the community are invited to submit applications to join this volunteer program. More information about the program and online applications can be found at www.bpscitizensonpatrol.ca
CRIME BRIEF: November 3, 2022
Type: Assault, Robbery
Incident: 22-44971
Location: North Park Street
On Wednesday, October 31, 2022, at approximately 9:00 P.M., officers with the Brantford Police Service received a report regarding an assault and robbery that had occurred in the North Park Street and Fairview Drive area involving several youths.
It was reported that a confrontation occurred between two groups of youths, with a 16-year-old male victim sustaining physical injuries after a robbery and assault.
Officers attended the scene where they located and arrested the two accused youth.
Search incident to arrest determined each of the accused were in possession of concealed knives.
At the time of this offence, one of the accused was determined to be in violation of an undertaking.
As a result, a 15-year-old youth stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Assault with a weapon
- Robbery
- Assault causing bodily harm
- Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose
- Carrying a concealed weapon
- Possession of a prohibited weapon
•Breach of undertaking
Additionally, a 16-year-old youth stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Assault with a weapon
- Robbery
- Assault causing bodily harm
- Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose
- Carrying a concealed weapon
BPS charge 41-year-old man with two pharmacy armed robberies
22-44521 / 22-43097
A 41-year-old Brantford man is facing numerous charges in relation to two separate pharmacy armed robberies that occurred this month.
Detectives with the Brantford Police Service continued to investigate an armed robbery that occurred Tuesday, October 18, 2022, at approximately 7:00 P.M., at a pharmacy located at Grey Street and Wayne Gretzky Parkway.
A report was received to advise that a man, with his face concealed, entered the pharmacy, brandished a gun, and demanded prescription drugs. Once the man obtained a quantity of drugs, he then fled on foot.
The employee did not receive any physical injuries as a result of the incident.
On Friday, October 28, 2022, at approximately 4:00 P.M., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to attend a report of an armed robbery at a pharmacy located at Colborne Street near James Street.
It was reported that a man, who was concealing his face, entered the pharmacy where he then allegedly brandished a handgun and demanded prescription drugs.
The accused fled the scene on foot with a quantity of prescription drugs.
The employee did not sustain any physical injuries.
Officers located the accused nearby and arrested him for both incidents.
Search incident to arrest located a loaded, unauthorized handgun and prohibited magazine in possession of the accused.
As a result of the investigation, Kevin COUTURE, 41, of Brantford, stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Robbery x2
- Use Firearm in Commission of an Offence x2
- Careless Use of Firearm x2
- Pointing a Firearm x2
- Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
- Possession of a Firearm Knowing its Possession is Unauthorized
- Disguise with Intent x2
- Carry Concealed Weapon x2
- Possession of a Prohibited Device
- Possession of a Prohibited or Restricted Firearm with Ammunition
The accused was held for bail.
