On May 15, 2021, the Belleville Police Service’s Project Renewal unit, in collaboration with the Ontario Provincial Police Organized Crime Bureau, stopped a car on Millennium Parkway and apprehended an Ancaster man, Stefan Intson, who was found with more than $10,000 worth of drugs. The police seized 258.8 grams of crystal methamphetamine, 3.8 grams of crack cocaine, and more than $8,000 in Canadian cash.
Drug trafficking is a serious criminal offense in Canada, and the penalties for such offenses are severe. Those found guilty of drug trafficking may face life imprisonment as well as significant fines. The illicit drug trade, sometimes known as drug trafficking, is a global black market dedicated to the cultivation, production, distribution, and sale of illegal narcotics.
The General Assembly also acknowledged that “despite continued enhanced efforts by States, relevant institutions, civil society, and non-governmental organizations, the global drug problem… threatens socioeconomic and political stability, as well as sustainable development.” Most jurisdictions use drug prohibition laws to outlaw the commerce of numerous types of narcotics, except under license. Drug trafficking is considered a serious offense because it not only poses a threat to public health but also contributes to other criminal activities, such as money laundering and violence.
In this case, Mr. Intson has been charged with trafficking in crystal methamphetamine and cocaine, as well as possessing goods obtained by crime worth more than $5,000. Possession of goods obtained by crime refers to the possession of property that has been obtained through illegal means, such as theft, fraud, or drug trafficking. The charge of possessing goods obtained by crime suggests that Mr. Intson may have obtained the cash found in his possession through illegal means.
The street value of the drugs seized by the police in this case is estimated to be around $10,000. This estimation is based on the current market value of crystal methamphetamine and crack cocaine in the area. However, the actual value of the drugs seized may vary depending on several factors. This includes the purity of the drugs and the demand for them in the local market.
Problem of Drug Addiction
Drug addiction is a serious public health issue that affects individuals and communities across Canada. People with addictions have disruptive patterns of substance use or behavior that disrupt their lives. Addiction involves compulsive interactions with stimuli, even when they have negative effects.
Addictions can be substance-related (e.g., alcohol, cocaine) or process-related (e.g., gambling, the internet). Crystal meth and crack cocaine are highly addictive and can cause severe, long-term damage to vital organs like the heart and brain.
It is projected that around 21% of the Canadian population (nearly 6 million people) will fit the criteria for addiction during their lifetime. At 18%, alcohol was the most commonly used substance for which people satisfied the criteria for addiction. Cannabis, often known as marijuana, has one of the highest rates of cannabis use in the world, with more than 40% of Canadians have used it in their lifetime and 10% having used it in the previous year.
Efforts to combat drug trafficking in Canada involve a combination of law enforcement and public health approaches. The police work to apprehend those involved in drug trafficking, while public health organizations provide education and support to individuals struggling with addiction.
The charges laid against Mr. Intson are a reminder that drug trafficking is a serious offense with severe consequences. It is essential to continue to address drug addiction and drug trafficking through a comprehensive approach that involves law enforcement, public health organizations, and community-based initiatives.
Drug abuse and addiction can also be viewed as a continuum.
Substances are used by people for a variety of purposes and to differing degrees. Some people may not experience any negative consequences as a result of their substance use, but others may. As seen in the model below, substance use and addiction can be thought of as being on a spectrum.
Problematic substance use and addiction symptoms can be episodic with alternating periods of increased substance use and control. For example, a person using substances to cope with stress can develop problematic substance use.
A widespread myth regarding addiction is that if someone tries an addictive substance, they will become ‘hooked’ right away. While numerous substances can be addictive, addiction is caused by more than just the chemicals consumed. Many persons who use narcotics for post-operative pain treatment, for example, do not get addicted to them. Addiction and substance abuse are frequently linked to a person’s lived experience and behavioural habits.
In conclusion, the apprehension of Stefan Intson with more than $10,000 worth of drugs is a significant step in combating drug trafficking in Canada. The charges laid against him highlight the serious consequences of drug trafficking, and the need to address drug addiction and drug trafficking through a comprehensive approach that involves law enforcement, public health organizations, and community-based initiatives.
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