27. Regina v. V.J. [Provincial Court of Alberta, Medicine Hat– December, 2013]

Members of the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CSFU) conducted an investigation involving extensive surveillance into the alleged cocaine trafficking activities of V.J. The police attached an electronic tracking device to V.J.’s automobile which led to his apprehension by the police on Highway #1 just west of Medicine Hat. A search of V.J.’s vehicle revealed approximately 1 ounce of cocaine and a digital scale. Police also seized a cellular telephone containing text messages consistent (according to the police) with drug trafficking. As a consequence of the foregoing V.J. was charged with possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking; pleas of not guilty were entered and a trial scheduled. Bottom line: as a consequence of our challenge to the constitutionality of the search giving rise to the seizure of cocaine all charges were completely withdrawn.