Major drug bust in Red Deer leads to multiple charges against repeat offender

A significant drug trafficking investigation led by the Red Deer RCMP has resulted in the arrest of a 41-year-old man and the seizure of a large quantity of drugs and guns.

In early October, Mounties launched an investigation into a suspected drug trafficker operating across Central Alberta, including within Red Deer.

On Oct. 10, officers executed a search warrant that uncovered:

• 1.1 kilograms of cocaine
• 1.4 kilograms of methamphetamine
• 3.1 kilograms of fentanyl
• Equipment used in drug production
• Three loaded firearms

Jesse Bergstrom, 41, was arrested and faces a series of charges including three counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking, production of a controlled substance, eight weapons-related offences, two counts of failing to comply with a release order, and possession of counterfeit currency.

Bergstrom remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court later this month.

This is not Bergstrom’s first encounter with law enforcement. He was previously the subject of a search warrant in April during which RCMP seized loaded guns and over a kilogram of ketamine.

RCMP officials say the operation highlights the strength of collaboration between specialized units and regional detachments in tackling organized crime and protecting communities across Alberta.