More than $100K in stolen clothing among items seized in Calgary drug investigation
Posted Jan 6, 2025 11:01 am.
Last Updated Jan 6, 2025 6:38 pm.
Calgary police say an investigation into a suspected fentanyl distribution operation running out of the city’s downtown has led to the discovery of a variety of drugs, a 3D-printed handgun, thousands of dollars of stolen clothing, and more.
The investigation started in September after a tip from the public, according to police.
On Dec. 12, officers executed search warrants on a house and a Jeep Grand Cherokee on 14 Street SW, as well as a detached garage on 28 Avenue NW.
Investigators say two men and one women were arrested at the 14 Street SW scene, where officers also seized a variety of items. This included fentanyl, methamphetamine, hydromorphone, heroin, cocaine, more than $4,000 in cash, a makeshift taser, a hydraulic press, a brick stamp press, and a 3D-printed .22 calibre handgun.
Four days later, on Dec. 16, another search warrant was executed on a storage locker, where police found at least $100,000 worth of stolen clothing.
Investigators believe the clothes were stolen during a break-in at a business in Kensington in November.
Officers searched another home on 34 Avenue SW days later, and found more methamphetamine and $2,000 worth of stolen clothing.
“This operation uncovered a significant drug distribution network within our city, which we believe had ties to B.C. That, coupled with the presence of homemade weapons is deeply concerning,” District 1 General Investigations Unit Staff Sgt. Brad Moore said in a statement. “The distribution of illicit substances is not a victimless crime. It is fueled by violence and other property crime that has broader impacts on our city than those who are merely engaged in the drug trade.”
Four people are now facing 17 charges tied to the drug manufacturing and distribution investigation.
Christopher Paulo Alves, 37, is facing one count of production of fentanyl, two counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking, one count of possession of a restricted firearm, one count of possession of a prohibited weapon, and one count of possession of proceeds of crime. He is next scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday.
Thirty-two-year-old Haley Elizabeth Erbach, is charged with one count of production of fentanyl, two counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking, one count of possession of a restricted firearm, one count of possession of a prohibited weapon, and one count of possession of proceeds of crime. She is set to appear in court again on Wednesday.
Clifford Clayton Favel, 48, is facing one count of possession for the purpose of trafficking, two counts of possession, and one count of failure to comply with a release order. He is also scheduled to be in court on Wednesday.
Roberto Ferreira, 57, is facing one count of possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000. His next court appearance is scheduled for Feb. 5.
Police say nine other people who were found by officers at the locations of the search warrants were arrested on 15 outstanding criminal warrants and 11 traffic warrants.
Anyone with information about this operation or other criminal activity, is asked to contact police or CrimeStoppers.
