OPP Clamps Down on Illegal Cannabis Storefronts in Niagara Falls

Date: September 10, 2024

In a significant move to uphold the Cannabis Act, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has made two arrests following the execution of search warrants at illegal cannabis storefronts in Niagara Falls. This operation, led by the Provincial Joint Forces Cannabis Enforcement Team (PJFCET), took place in collaboration with local law enforcement agencies, including the Haldimand/Norfolk OPP Community Street Crime Unit and the Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS).

The Investigation

The investigation commenced in August 2024, highlighting concerns regarding unauthorized sales of cannabis from two storefronts in Niagara Falls. Neither of these establishments held the necessary licenses from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) to operate legally within the cannabis market.

Enforcement Actions

On September 10, 2024, the enforcement team targeted the two locations, which are now facing Interim Closure Orders under section 18(1) of the Cannabis Control Act (CCA). Importantly, individuals with any interest in these properties, including owners, can seek permission from the Superior Court of Justice to enter, as unauthorized entry may lead to arrest for breaking and entering under section 348(1) of the Criminal Code.

Seized Items

During the raids, authorities seized a staggering amount of illegal cannabis products, totalling over $250,000. The confiscated items included:

• Illegal cannabis in various forms, including dried cannabis, hash, edibles, vapes, and shatter
• $1,637 in Canadian currency
• A digital video recorder (DVR) system
• Three cellphones and two tablets

Charges Laid

Two individuals have been charged in connection with the operation.

Lehlohonolo Molefe

A 39-year-old resident of Toronto, Molefe faces multiple charges, including:

• Possession of cannabis for the purpose of selling
• Possession of illicit cannabis
• Possession of property obtained by crime
• Possession of a prohibited weapon
• Failing to comply with a release order (two counts)

Molefe has been remanded into custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice on September 25, 2024, via video conference.

Misty-Lyn Drozdowsky

A 60-year-old from Port Colborne, Drozdowsky has been charged with:

• Possession of cannabis for the purpose of selling
• Possession of illicit cannabis
• Possession of property obtained by crime

Drozdowsky has been released from custody and is expected in court in St. Catharines on October 21, 2024.

Ongoing Investigation

The investigation remains active, and authorities encourage anyone with information concerning the illegal sale of cannabis to contact the OPP’s non-emergency number at 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or through their website at ontariocrimestoppers.ca.

Legal Implications of Illegal Cannabis

It is essential to understand the distinctions between legal and illegal cannabis. Purchasing cannabis legally can only occur through the Ontario Cannabis Store or licensed retail stores. Engaging with unauthorized dealers is illegal and poses various risks, including:

• Legal penalties for the purchaser
• Inadequate product safety and quality assurance
• Contribution to criminal networks that may also be involved in other illicit activities

Quote from OPP Officials

“The Provincial Joint Forces Cannabis Enforcement Team will continue to work collaboratively with our partners to shutdown illegal cannabis storefronts throughout the province. Cannabis is a lucrative commodity for criminal networks, and our focus is on the disruption and dismantling of these networks involved in the illegal cannabis trade.” – OPP Detective Inspector Anne Goodwin, Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau

About PJFCET

The PJFCET is a collaborative operation spearheaded by the OPP, consisting of various police services and the AGCO. The team’s mission is to enforce laws surrounding cannabis and investigate illegal activities linked to its sale and distribution.