Pot bust nets charges

An Emo resident faces numerous drug- and firearm-related charges as a result of a search warrant executed Friday.
Fort Frances OPP, assisted by the Tri-Force Drug Unit, North West Region Emergency Response Team, and the North West Region Crime Unit, attended an Aylsworth Road residence at 9 a.m. and executed the warrant.
As a result of the warrant, more than 600 marijuana plants were seized, as well as three pounds of processed marijuana, and several firearms.
Bruce Shaw, 51, of Aylsworth Road subsequently was arrested and charged with three counts of unauthorized possession of a firearm, one count of careless use of a firearm, one count of production of marijuana, and one count of possession of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking.
He was released from custody on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court in Fort Frances on Nov. 26.
Meanwhile, in a continuing effort to reduce drinking and driving, members of the Fort Frances OPP conducted a R.I.D.E. program on Highway 71 on Friday.
As a result, more than 175 vehicles were checked and a large amount of alcohol was seized. Some 15 Liquor Licence Act charges also were laid.
This R.I.D.E. was conducted to help ensure the safety of our youths who were attending the annual Homecoming party.
It is against the law for anyone under the age of 19 to possess alcohol.
The OPP also would like to remind everyone that tampering with electoral signs is an offence.