CRTF Seizes 11,174 Cartons of Contraband Tobacco in New Public Approach– “This unique international partnership includes agencies from both Canada and the United States, including Ontario, Quebec, and New York State agencies.”

Cornwall, ON- September 23^rd, 2016 the Cornwall Regional Task Force issued a news release updating the public of their successful seizures since their “Blitz” operation that took place back in June of 2016.  The CRTF partnered with 15 other agencies within Canada and the United States this past summer to hype up border security by conducting high visibility patrols as well as door-to-door visits with community members who reside along the St. Lawrence River.  The CRTF sought out public support in reporting suspicious and/or criminal activity by water, air, or land, due to the unique geographical make-up the area enthralls.  The Cornwall Regional Task Force is a joint forces partnership which includes the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), and the Ontario Ministry of Finance.

Constable Jean Juneau told ATV staff that the goal of this initiative is to strengthen ties with the surrounding communities, and to make sure communities on both sides of the border are well served.  “Everyone has been cooperating in this big endeavor.  Since the door-to-door approach was taken there has definitely been an increase in public participation, and that’s helped us have more successes.”

As a result of this initiative the CRTF has been successful in the seizures of fine cut tobacco translating to roughly 2,235,000 cigarettes or 11,174 cartons that will not reach the contraband market, and several arrests.  Among the arrested include: Kevin Buckshot, 43, of Akwesasne, Ontario, for being in possession of approximately 180 kilos of fine cut tobacco on September 12^th, 2016; Danny Rheaume, 20, of Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, Quebec, for being in possession of approximately 605 kilos of fine cut tobacco on September 13^th, 2016.  The aforementioned have been charged under the provisions of the Excise Act, 2001, and may face additional charges under the provincial Tobacco Tax Act.  Both were released on a Promise to Appear in Cornwall Court at later dates. These successful investigations were made possible through this unique international partnership and the cooperation provided by the surrounding communities.

This unique international partnership includes agencies from both Canada and the United States, including Ontario, Quebec, and New York State agencies.  The agencies include:  The Akwesasne Mohawk Police Services, the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police, Ontario Provincial Police, Canada Border Services Agency, Cornwall Community Police Services, RCMP Valleyfield Detachment, RCMP St. Lawrence Shiprider, “O” Division’s Marine Security Enforcement Team (MSET), Ontario Ministry of Finance, Surete du Quebec, Homeland Security Investigations, New York State Police, New York State Air National Guard, United States Coast Guard, and Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations.

The Cornwall Regional Task Force extends their thanks for the continued public understanding and cooperation, as well as the participation and partnerships on both sides of the border with all of the aforementioned agencies.  If you have any information regarding these crimes, or other criminal activity within your area please contact your local police services.  You may also reach out to local investigators within the Cornwall Regional Task Force at: (613)937-2800 or 1-800-387-0020.

BY: Ohseraseia:hawi