Suspects used drones to deliver drugs into Alberta prison: RCMP

Two residents and an inmate are facing charges after allegedly using drones to deliver drugs to an Alberta prison.

The Drumheller RCMP say a drug trafficking investigation began in May 2023 when police seized several drones and a large amount of illicit drugs.

“The investigation continued and RCMP identified a suspect and a suspect inmate who were facilitating the introduction of drugs and phones into the Drumheller Institution via illicit drone flights,” reads a police release.

Officers executed a search warrant on Mar. 15 at a home in Eckville, Alta. and found cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, along with cash, illegal weapons and two drones.

Eckville resident Ashley Maki, 39, and John Andrews, 32, an inmate from Drumheller Institution have been charged with conspiracy to commit an indictable offence and possession of proceeds of crime.

RCMP have issued a warrant for the arrest of 19-year-old Eckville resident Dayton Chassie. Chassie, along with Maki, is facing additional charges for drug possession and prohibited weapons.

Maki was released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in a Red Deer courtroom in June. Andrews remains in Drumheller Institution and is awaiting a court date.

“This was a lengthy and meticulous investigation resulting in the removal of illicit and harmful drugs and weapons from our communities,” says Staff Sgt. Robert Harms in a statement.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with additional information is urged to contact police.