SUDBURY -- As the community of Callander, Ont. mourns the loss of its mayor, who died suddenly Monday morning, North Bay police say three people allegedly "took advantage of a tragic situation" and were involved in robbing his house.
As part of the investigation into the break-and-enter, police say a search warrant executed at the North Bay home of one of the accused has also revealed over $60,000 in drugs.
Special Constable John Schultz is the community safety coordinator for North Bay Police Service.
Schultz says one of the accused entered the home of Hector Lavigne early Monday morning, while it was unoccupied due to a family emergency, and stole credit cards and other household items. Authorities also say furniture inside the home was damaged during the robbery.
According to Schultz, one of the accused allegedly drove to the scene, while the third had involvement of some sort, but says police cannot comment beyond that at this point because everything is before the court.
Authorities say a search at the North Bay home belonging to the 30-year-old allowed officers to recover the stolen property, as well as seize:
- 5,236 suspected methamphetamine pills valued at $26,180.
- 251.2 grams of suspected crystal methamphetamine valued at $20,120.
- 168.5 grams of suspected cocaine valued at $21,062.
- three non-restricted firearms
- one prohibited firearm
- one prohibited sharp edged weapon
- $3,400 dollars in Canadian currency
- Toyota Corolla, suspected to be involved in drug distribution
As a result of the drug discovery, the North Bay man is facing additional trafficking and weapons-related charges, as well as one for the possession of a forged document. The woman is also charged with trafficking a controlled substance.
The woman and the man from Powassan have been released from custody and are scheduled to appear in court on Feb. 18.
Police say the 30-year-old man remains in custody pending a bail hearing.
The investigation is ongoing and further charges are pending.
Correction:
North Bay police clarified details of the break and enter following the initial release.
