Checkstops in the Cochrane area over the Nov. 29 to Dec. 1 weekend resulted in two arrests for impaired driving and one for possession of a prohibited firearm and drug trafficking, and three licence suspensions, according to RCMP.
On Nov. 29 at 9:40 p.m., officers at one of the Checkstop locations observed drugs in view and placed the driver and passenger under arrest, the release stated. The subsequent investigation lead to officers seizing more than 30 grams of methamphetamine and a loaded sawed-off rifle.
Police said Garrett Knight, 20, of Calgary was charged with the following offences possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking, carrying a concealed weapon, unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of a prohibited weapon in a vehicle, two counts of possession of a weapon contrary to a prohibition order, and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.
Knight, according to RCMP, was held for a Judicial Interim Release hearing and has been released on a $3,500 no-deposit recognizance, to appear in Cochrane Provincial Court Jan. 7, 2020.
Cochrane RCMP municipal traffic, provincial traffic and general duty officers, along with Citizens on Patrol conducted the traffic stops in Cochrane and the surrounding Rocky View County communities.
“As a part of our commitment to 'safe homes and safe communities,’ we routinely conduct Checkstops in and around the Cochrane area,” said Staff Sergeant Dave Brunner, acting detachment commander for Cochrane RCMP, in the release. “With the holiday season upon us, we have increased our efforts to ensure the roads are safe for all travellers. We would like to thank our community partner Citizens on Patrol for participating in the Checkstops with us, and we would like to encourage everyone to celebrate the holidays safely. Plan ahead, arrange for a designated driver or other safe way to get home after holiday celebrations and enjoy spending time with your loved ones."
