On August 5, 2014, at approximately 1pm, Winkler and Morden Police Services along with “D” Division RCMP executed four search warrants in a number of residences in the Morden and Winkler areas.
Project Denver was a result of a long-term investigation into drug trafficking in the communities of Morden and Winkler and was a joint force operation between the Morden Police Service, Winkler Police Service and the RCMP Serious and Organized Crime Unit.
“We were pleased to be able to assist the Morden Police Service and the Winkler Police Service in their investigation,” said “D” Division Inspector Brent Taylor. “Catching criminals is the number one priority in any police force and we’re very happy with the outcome of Project Denver.”
A total of 10 arrests were made and as a result of Project Denver, the following individuals were arrested and face numerous drug trafficking-related charges:
- Ruben John Reimer, age 32, of Morden, Manitoba
- David James Richard Hills, age 22, of Morden, Manitoba
- Brian Hodgson, age 21, of Morden, Manitoba
- Ernest Buhler, age 26, of Village of Rosengart, Manitoba
- Robert Brian Neufeld, age 32 of Morden, Manitoba
- Brett Ashton Krashel, age 22, of Carnduff, Saskatchewan
- Chadwin Ross Klyne, age 32, of Winkler, Manitoba
- Peter Loewen Penner, age 20, of Winkler, Manitoba
- Shyla Tyne Lazarenko, age 18, of Winnipeg, Manitoba
The following person remains at large and is being sought by investigators:
- Heinrich Wiebe, age 27, of Winkler, Manitoba
All arrested parties were held in custody and appeared in Winnipeg Provincial Court on August 6, 2014. Some of the individuals have since been released on undertakings while others remain in custody. All individuals are scheduled to appear in court at later dates.
“Project Denver is a perfect example of a successful multi-agency effort that will severely cripple our local drug subculture and send a strong message to those in the drug trade,” said Winkler Police Service Chief Rick Hiebert.
“We are extremely pleased with the result of Project Denver and the positive impact it will have on our community,” added Morden Police Service Chief B. J. (Brad) Neduzak. “It has been a very positive working relationship between all three agencies and we would like to thank the RCMP, Winkler Police Service and all officers involved, for their time and dedication to this successful project”.
Those who traffic in illicit drugs destroy lives, homes and communities. The RCMP and its partners at Morden and Winkler Police Services remain fully committed to enforcing laws against illicit drugs to their fullest extent. Anyone with information regarding drug trafficking is asked to call their local police agency or RCMP detachment.
