Traffic stop results in seizure of drugs and weapons

Lethbridge Police have charged a 38-year-old male following a traffic stop that resulted in the seizure of methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine and numerous weapons, including a shotgun.

On September 25 just after 7:30 p.m. police initiated a traffic stop along the 1400 block of 23 Avenue North. Police observed drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle and the male occupant was found to have outstanding warrants. Following a search incidental to arrest, police seized quantities of methamphetamine (350 street doses), fentanyl, cocaine, drug paraphernalia including pipes, a scale and packaging along with cash, a butterfly knife, hatchets, a shotgun and ammunition. 

Matthew Douglas Dragland, 38, of Lethbridge, is charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking, two counts of possession of a controlled substance, knowingly possessing a prohibited/restricted weapon, knowingly possessing an unauthorized firearm, unauthorized possession of a firearm in a vehicle, possession of stolen property, two counts of possession of a firearm/weapon obtained by the commission of an offence and three counts of failing to comply with release order conditions. 

Following a Judicial Interim Release hearing, Dragland was remanded in custody and made his first court appearance Sept. 30.