The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) continues to offer crucial support to the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation, who declared a State of Emergency on December 1, 2023, in response to the opioid-related harms impacting their community.
On August 2, 2024, at approximately 3:00 p.m., members of the OPP East Region Community Street Crime Unit (CSCU), assisted by the OPP Emergency Response Team (ERT), conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle. This operation was part of the ongoing collaboration between the police and the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan Ontario First Nation Territory.
During the stop, police seized a quantity of suspected cocaine, money, and drug paraphernalia. The vehicle’s occupants were arrested without incident.
Following the investigation, 30-year-old Jonathan Chant-Sinon of North Algona Wilberforce Township has been charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking cocaine, possession of proceeds of crime, and breach of release conditions. Co-accused 37-year-old Megan Anne Nichols of Renfrew faces charges of possession for the purpose of trafficking cocaine and possession of proceeds of crime.
Both individuals remain in custody pending a bail hearing at the Ontario Court of Justice in Pembroke.
The OPP urges anyone with information regarding illicit drugs in the region to contact local police. Anonymous tips can be provided to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), with the possibility of receiving a cash reward of up to $2,000.
(Written by: Emma Butler)