A routine welfare check in central Edmonton earlier this month led to the seizure of nearly $750,000 worth of drugs, cash, a firearm, and ammunition, culminating in the arrest of a 36-year-old man now facing multiple drug and firearm-related charges.
The incident unfolded last week, on Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, around 2:12 p.m., when Edmonton Police Service (EPS) officers responded to a welfare check at a residence near 120 Street and 107 Avenue. Upon arrival, officers encountered a male with visible blood on his hands. After being invited into the residence, police observed drugs and a firearm in plain view.
Following this discovery, officers arrested Tyler Graham, 36, on the scene and secured a search warrant to investigate further.
Significant Seizure During Search
The search revealed a substantial quantity of illicit substances and related items, including:
- Over six kilograms of methamphetamine
- Nearly four kilograms of soft cocaine
- Nearly two kilograms of fentanyl
- More than one kilogram of hard cocaine
The combined street value of the seized drugs is estimated at $750,000. In addition to the drugs, police confiscated:
- Over $7,000 in cash
- A handgun with a defaced serial number
- Ammunition
- Drug paraphernalia associated with trafficking.
Police Statement and Charges
Inspector Brent Dahlseide of the EPS Downtown Patrol Branch commended the officers for their quick response and decisive action.
“Although our officers were expecting to respond to a check on welfare, these circumstances quickly escalated when a firearm was observed,” Dahlseide said. “This also led to the seizure of nearly $750,000 of illicit drugs. We are thankful that we were able to safely and successfully take a firearm, ammunition, and a large volume of illicit drugs off of our streets.”
Graham is facing multiple charges, including:
- Four counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking
- Possession of proceeds of crime
He is scheduled to appear in court tomorrow, Thursday, November 28, 2024.