A months-long drug trafficking investigation has culminated in multiple arrests and the seizure of cocaine, firearms, and thousands in cash after Westlock RCMP, with the support of multiple specialized units, executed a series of coordinated raids last week.
The investigation began in July 2024 after Westlock RCMP received information about cocaine trafficking in the area. As the probe expanded, police identified potential suppliers in St. Albert and Edmonton, leading to a broader operation involving the Eastern Alberta District Crime Reduction Unit, St. Albert RCMP Drug Unit, RCMP ‘K’ Division Special I, RCMP ‘K’ Division Integrated Offender Management, and the Edmonton Police Service (EPS).
On May 22, officers executed five search warrants – including some in Edmonton with the assistance of EPS Tactical – resulting in two arrests and two outstanding warrants.
The searches yielded 105.64 grams of cocaine, 7 firearms, 3 forged identification documents, $12,705 in Canadian currency, and 19 cartons of unstamped cigarettes.
Two Westlock residents, Michael Patrick Krysa, 39, and Nathan Stephani, 46, were arrested and charged with multiple offences, including five counts of cocaine trafficking each.
Additionally, warrants have been issued for Nicole Bombay, 28, and Austin McFarlane, 27, also of Westlock, who face two counts each of cocaine trafficking.
Krysa and Stephani were released with conditions following a hearing with with a justice of the peace. Stephani is scheduled to appear in Alberta Court of Justice in Westlock on June 11, while Krysa will appear in St. Albert on June 16.
Supt. Anthony Hanson, Acting District Officer for Eastern Alberta District, praised the operation.
“We wanted to highlight the work that can be accomplished when a detachment takes the lead on a file and has access to multiple specialized units and partnerships to complete their investigation” said Hanson, Acting District Officer for Eastern Alberta District. “We want to thank the hard working and dedicated members of the Westlock RCMP for moving this investigation forward as they did. These arrests and searches have allowed us not only to remove drugs and weapons from our streets but also bring to account those responsible.”
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