Five arrested in “dial-a-dopers” project, Edmonton

An enforcement project targeting “dial-a-dopers” which began in October of last year has resulted in the arrest of five individuals and numerous charges.

After receiving information about a drug trafficking cell operating in several south-Edmonton neighbourhoods, the EPS Drug and Gang Section launched an investigation, which included undercover work by several officers and search warrants executed at four residences and three vehicles. A total of 56 charges were laid late last week, including two charges of directing a criminal organization.

“To my knowledge, this is the first time that the Edmonton Drug and Gang Enforcement (EGDE) Unit has been successful in charging any individual with directing a criminal organization. This is a very significant charge,“ says Insp. Greg Preston of the Organized Crime Branch. “Criminal organizations pose a significant risk to society, and we will continue to focus on infiltrating these groups and charging those involved.”

The following individuals were charged:

Jared Betts, 22, was charged with directing a criminal organization, participation in an organized crime group and possession for the purpose of trafficking.

Jonathan Cardinal, 24, was charged with directing a criminal organization, participation in an organized crime group, possession for the purpose of trafficking, possession of proceeds of crime (x3) and trafficking (x3).

JD Brandon Huggins, 31, was charged with trafficking (x10), possession of proceeds of crime (x10), possession for the purpose of trafficking and participation in an organized crime group.

Roberto Rivera, 21, was charged with trafficking (x2), possession of proceeds of crime (x2), participation in an organized crime group and possession for the purpose of trafficking.

Tyler Bullock, 23, was charged with trafficking (x2), possession of proceeds of crime (x2), participation in an organized crime group and possession for the purpose of trafficking.