10 arrested after drug-trafficking investigation in Trinity-Conception

RCMP have arrested ten people from the Trinity-Conception area for drug trafficking and other offences.

Police launched Project Bonshaw seven months ago that was focused on drug trafficking in eastern Newfoundland.

Between May and July RCMP from Bay Roberts and Harbour Grace Detachments along with the Federal Serious and Organized Crime Unit, Emergency Response Team and Police Dog Services assisted in the arrests and searches. The RNC also supported the investigation.

Police executed search warrants at home in Victoria, Harbour Grace, and Western Bay. In those homes, police seized cocaine, prescription pills, telecommunication devices, drug paraphernalia indicative of drug trafficking.

Also seized were two pairs of nunchucks, parts for a .223 Carbine rifle, and approximately $55,000 total in cash.

The individuals charged are:

• Charlie Budden, age 60 of Victoria

• Colleen Pottle, age 48 of Carbonear

• David Parsons, age 36 of Carbonear

• James Puddester, age 42 of Western Bay

• Joseph Mullins, age 58 of Carbonear

• Adrianne Haire, age 32 of Victoria

• Randy Stevenson, age 40 of Victoria

• Kelsey Dove, age 22 of Harbour Grace

• Edward Mercer, age 46 of Harbour Grace

• Shane Lush, age 35 of Harbour Grace

All accused are scheduled to appear in court at a later date.