Based on informant information and surveillance police believed evidence related to a shooting at an Edmonton nightclub would be found in a particular residence. Search warrant obtained. Police raided residence where accused and another occupant was present. Inside the residence police found quantity of cash, cocaine, a sawed-off shot gun and semi-automatic pistol, as well as personal papers of the client. Client charged with possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking and numerous firearms offences. Possession for the purpose charge was dismissed at the request of the Crown when the trial judge refused to qualify the Crown’s proposed drug expert in several areas sought by the Crown. Client acquitted of all charges when trial judge held there was insufficient evidence of knowledge and control on the part of the accused.
July 3, 2012