Police Raids Target Illegal Cannabis Activities in Sherbrooke Area

Sherbrooke, January 24, 2025 – The Sherbrooke Police Service (SPS) and the Régie de police de Memphrémagog, under the regional ACCES Cannabis program (Concerted Actions to Counter Underground Economies), conducted three raids on Tuesday, January 21. These operations took place at 720 Connelly Street in St-Georges de Windsor, 1160 Lincoln Street, and 142B Léger Street, following weeks of investigation and tips from the public. The locations were identified as sites for drug trafficking.

Two suspects, aged 59 and 71, are set to face charges through a court summons. The operation was carried out with the assistance of SPS patrol officers, the Sherbrooke forensic identification unit, and the SPS intervention group.

ACCES Cannabis Initiative

The investigation was conducted as part of the ACCES Cannabis program, launched in 2018 by the Government of Quebec and coordinated by the Ministry of Public Security. The initiative aims to crack down on the illicit cannabis supply chain, reducing its availability on the Quebec market, particularly to young people.

Charges and Seizure Details

The suspects will face the following charges:

• Drug trafficking
• Possession of drugs for the purpose of trafficking
• Possession of illicit cannabis
• Possession of stolen property
• Possession of a stolen and improperly stored firearm

During the raids, police seized:

• 151 grams of cocaine
• 324 grams of cannabis
• 82 grams of hashish
• $20,640 in cash
• A stolen .22-caliber handgun
• Drug lists and a scale

The Broader Fight Against Illicit Cannabis

This operation highlights the ongoing effort to suppress illegal cannabis distribution, a key component of the ACCES Cannabis strategy. The program seeks to disrupt criminal organizations, prevent youth access to illicit cannabis, detect violations, and recover financial assets tied to illegal activity.

Strategic Goals Include:

• Mitigating the negative effects of black market cannabis on state revenues, including lost taxes and reduced legal cannabis sales.
• Maximizing the health and safety benefits anticipated from legalization, including reducing youth access, addressing mental health risks, and alleviating systemic crime and court congestion.

Public Support and Reporting

Authorities encourage residents to report information about illegal cannabis sales or production. Tips can be sent to Acces_cannabis@ville.sherbrooke.qc.ca.

For anonymous tips, contact Échec au crime at 1-800-711-1800 or visit www.echecaucrime.com. This organization is run by volunteers and guarantees anonymity for those reporting crimes.

The Sherbrooke Police Service remains committed to maintaining pressure on illegal sellers and producers, ensuring compliance with municipal, provincial, and federal cannabis regulations.