Police charge male with drug trafficking offences twice in two days

Lethbridge Police charged a 58-year-old male with drug trafficking offences and within hours of his release from custody, he was re-arrested in breach of his conditions after being found in possession of more drugs.

On December 7, just after 7 p.m. while on patrol downtown, officers observed a male known to police with outstanding warrants. He was arrested and following a search incidental to arrest, police seized just over seven grams of fentanyl (roughly 70 doses) –  some pre-portioned – as well as a knife and small quantity of cash. Following a bail hearing, the male was released from custody around mid-day on December 8 with conditions prohibiting him from possessing or using drugs.  

Approximately six hours later, police executed a search warrant at a home along the 200 block of 13 Street North. The same male was located inside the home and police seized 1.5 grams of methamphetamine (15 doses), 10.5 grams of fentanyl (105 doses), along with drug paraphernalia, including scales, baggies and multiple cell phones.

Vincent Boyce Smith, 58, of Lethbridge, is charged with three counts of possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking and one count each of carrying a concealed weapon, possession of the proceeds of crime and failing to comply with the conditions of a release order. 

Following a Judicial Interim Release hearing, Smith was released from custody with additional conditions and is scheduled to appear in court January 23, 2025.