Three people are facing charges after a seizure of drugs and other items in Quinte West as a result of a drug trafficking investigation.
After starting the investigation earlier in the fall, the OPP East Region Community Street Crime Unit executed search warrants at residences on York Crescent and Alberta Street with assistance from members of the OPP Emergency Response Team, the Canine Unit and Quinte West OPP on Wednesday.
Officers seized over 24 grams of suspected fentanyl, over 95 grams of suspected cocaine, as well as more than 300 pills of suspected hydromorphone and benzimidazole. They also seized items associated with drug trafficking and nearly $11,000 in cash.
Jordan Lalonde, 36, of Quinte West, has been charged with:
- Possession of Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – four counts
- Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime over $5000
- Fail to comply with a release order
This accused has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Belleville at a later date.
Valerie Mercer, 22, of Quinte West, has been charged with:
- Possession of Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – three counts
- Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime over $5000
This accused remains in custody pending an ongoing bail hearing process.
Robert Richardson, 47, of Quinte West, has been charged with:
- Possession of Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – four counts
- Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime over $5000
- Fail to comply with a probation order – two counts
This accused remains in custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Belleville this Thursday.

PHOTO: OPP


