57 people charged after open-air drug market bust in Hamilton
11 of the 57 accused were rearrested at least once and three of those 11 were arrested three times.
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Hamilton Police say they’ve shut down an open-air drug market targeting “vulnerable people” after a five-week project that saw 57 arrests and 103 charges laid.
Cops say that during project Open Air, 11 of the 57 accused were rearrested at least once and three of those 11 were arrested three times.
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Officers also seized 45 grams of crack cocaine, 116 grams of cannabis, 81 grams of methamphetamine, and 118 grams of fentanyl.
Police allege the operation operated over the past few years at King St. and East Ave. and was run by Vincent Asanti, who was arrested for two controlled drugs and substance act offences (cocaine) and proceeds over $5,000 while $51,351.90 was seized from his residences and vehicle.
Authorities say the area has been the subject of numerous community complaints because of alleged drug dealing and petty crime and called it “a sophisticated operation that preyed on multiple vulnerable people.”
Police say the market appeared to be run like a business with multiple roles and shift changes including lookouts, runners and drug traffickers.
“These markets have an impact on the surrounding community, fostering feelings of insecurity, increasing the risk of crime and deterring businesses and residents from fully engaging with the area,” said Hamilton Police Insp. Jim Callender in a statement.
“By addressing these issues, we aim to restore safety and rebuild trust in the affected neighbourhoods.”
Hamilton Police also worked with the City of Hamilton to remove fencing that provided cover, installed new fencing to restrict access, and enhanced lighting to improve visibility to make the area less attractive for drug activities since it was concealed from Main St.
Cops say it’s also believed the operation ensured everyone involved carried small amounts of drugs so they would not be held in custody if they were caught with illegal substances.
“During this operation, we confiscated over $12,000 in coins, highlighting just how significant this issue is on our community,” said Callendar.
“We’ve seen individuals panhandling, only to immediately purchase drugs with the money they collect.
“It’s a tragic cycle where people exploit and capitalize on the struggles of those battling addiction,” he added.
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