NEWS RELEASE
YORK REGIONAL POLICE
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Investigators with the York Regional Police Guns, Gangs and Drug Enforcement Unit are seeking assistance from the community to locate a suspect wanted in an ongoing drug and firearms trafficking investigation.
The investigation began in January 2020, when information was received about a suspect who was believed to be trafficking methamphetamine in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). The investigation has determined that the suspect was working with others to traffic methamphetamine and cocaine.
Between the months of March and May 2020, investigators executed search warrants at various residences around the GTA including Brampton, Mississauga and Toronto. Searches at these locations yielded large quantities of illegal drugs, cash, ammunition and a vehicle that was equipped with a specialized compartment used to conceal contraband.
Officers have seized more than five kilograms of methamphetamine, two kilograms of cocaine, 20 pounds of cannabis, 400 grams of ketamine, 460 grams of MDMA. Prescription medication was also seized including oxycodone, xanax and percocet.
A total of 12 people have been arrested and 75 charges have been laid. An arrest warrant has been issued for one of the suspects of this investigation, Shaun Villanueva. Investigators are releasing his photo and appealing to anyone with information on his whereabouts to come forward. Investigators are also reminding anyone who may be assisting the suspect with evading arrest that they may also be charged with a criminal offence.
Wanted:
- Shaun Villaneuva, 34, City of Toronto
Charges:
- Trafficking – Schedule 1 Substance – Methamphetamine
- Trafficking – Schedule 1 Substance - Cocaine
- Fail to Comply With Release Order
- Counselling Offence That is Not Committed
- Trafficking Firearm
Mr. Villaneuva should not be approached if seen, and the public is urged to call 911 if he is spotted.
Insp. Ryan Hogan, officer in charge of the Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau, along with Det. Const. Dexter Jarad speak to the investigation in a video that also contains film of items seized.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Guns, Gangs and Drug Enforcement Unit at 1- 866-876-5423, ext. 7817, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-tips, leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com
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