Regional Task Force seizes pick-ups, trailers and cigarettes

Four (4) seizures in South Glengarry, Ontario;

One (1) seizure in Cornwall, Ontario;

These seizures resulted in the arrest of the following three (3) individuals who have been charged with Possession of Unstamped Tobacco, contrary to Section 32(1) of the Excise Act, 2001, and/or who are facing or have been charged under the provincial Tobacco Tax Act for possession of unmarked cigarettes:

Kyle Clayton Gray (age 21) from St-Zotique, Quebec;

Mark Kimble (age 33) from Montreal, Quebec; and

Philippe St. Amand (age 32) from Verdun, Quebec.

Kyle Gray has also been charged with failure to comply with conditions of his undertaking.

The following items were seized during the above-mentioned events:

Two (2) pick-up trucks, one (1) enclosed cargo trailer and one (1) utility trailer;

8, 321 re-sealable bags and/or cartons each containing 200 contraband cigarettes;

502 kilograms of fine cut tobacco.

One of the key priorities of the RCMP's Contraband Tobacco Enforcement Strategy is education and awareness. Cornwall Detachment has begun its marketing campaign aimed at making the public aware of the consequences of being involved in the contraband tobacco trade. Billboards have been placed along our highways and inside our recreation centers to assist us in our efforts.

When you smuggle or buy illegal tobacco you're breaking the law. Your actions mean you could have your conveyance seized, be subjected to heavy fines and/or jail time, and be left with a criminal record. By being a part of this illegal activity, you generate money for organized crime thus bringing criminality and violence into your neighbourhoods.

For information on our awareness and education campaign, please contact Cst. Jean Juneau, at 613-938-2800 ext. 258.

The CRTF continues to address the complaints of suspicious activity observed by local residents. If anyone notices suspicious activity, they are urged to please contact the CRTF at 613-937-2800 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

The CRTF is a joint forces partnership that includes the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Canada Border Services Agency, Ontario Provincial Police, Ontario Ministry of Revenue and Cornwall Community Police Service.