On October 6th, 2021, the Wetaskiwin RCMP Crime Reduction Unit, with the assistance of the Wetaskiwin RCMP Detachment members executed a Controlled Drugs and Substances Act Search Warrant on a residence in the area of 47A Avenue and 52 Street in Wetaskiwin. This investigation is a continuation of the Crime Reduction Unit’s efforts to curb the trafficking of illicit opioids in Wetaskiwin, which saw multiple drug overdoses in September.  

As a result of the search warrant, RCMP seized quantities of methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, GHB, a prohibited Taser weapon and over $7,500 in Canadian currency suspected to be proceeds of crime. The combined amount of drugs seized would have been enough for approximately 200 doses, with an approximate street value of over $7500.

As a result of the investigation, one male is facing the following charges

49-year-old Russel Leonard Nelson of Wetaskiwin is charged with:

  • Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking Heroin
  • Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking Fentanyl
  • Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking Methamphetamine
  • Possession of a Prohibited Weapon
  • Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose
  • Possession of Proceeds of Crime over $5000
  • Possession of GHB

Nelson was brought before a justice of the peace on this matter and released on $500 cash bail and is scheduled to appear in Wetaskiwin Provincial Court on November 4th, 2021. 

If anyone has information, they are asked to contact the Wetaskiwin RCMP Detachment at 780-312-7267 or their local police. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.