Project Deadbolt leads to multiple gang-related arrests: Manitoba RCMP

RCMP have shut down a drug ring operating between Winnipeg and Grand Rapids.

Police said Tuesday Project Deadbolt, an investigation by the RCMP Integrated Gang Intelligence Unit which began in Sept. 2017, led them to a drug smuggling network that was being run from Headingley Correctional Centre.

While they could not divulge specific details, RCMP said six people connected to the Manitoba Warriors gang have been arrested for drug trafficking.

567 grams of cocaine was seized.

“It’s a significant seizure,” said Sgt. Paul Manaigre. “We’re hoping that it will have an impact for the Grand Rapids area”.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "It's a significant seizure," said Sgt. Paul Manaigre. "We're hoping that it will have an impact for the Grand Rapids area".

He said they had not been able to identify the original source of the drugs.

“Right now it’s coming into Winnipeg. I’m not sure where the target source is from but it’s being distributed to our communities and we’re going to put a stop to it”.

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RCMP Division ‘D’ headquarters on Portage Avenue showed off exhibits obtained during the investigation, including drugs, gang member vests, and other paraphernalia.

The following charges have been laid and the investigation continues.

Harvey Cook Jr., 29, Grand Rapids, remains in custody:

• Conspiracy to Traffic Cocaine
• Conspiracy to Possess the Proceeds of Crime

Jesse Richard Thomas, 33, Winnipeg, remains in custody:

• Conspiracy to Traffic Cocaine

Bobby Raymond Hudson, 26, Grand Rapids, in custody:

• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking Cocaine
• Conspiracy to Traffic Cocaine
• Conspiracy to Possess the Proceeds of Crime

Terry Andrew Smith, 27, Grand Rapids, released:

• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking Cocaine
• Conspiracy to Traffic Cocaine

Madeline Cook, 59, Grand Rapids, released:

• Conspiracy to Possess the Proceeds of Crime

Harvey James Cook Sr., 56, Grand Rapids, released:

• Conspiracy to Possess the Proceeds of Crime