Two Cobourg Residents Facing Criminal Charges after Cobourg and Port Hope Police CIB Investigation

In the spring of 2023, as part of an ongoing enhanced enforcement strategy targeting illegal drug activity affecting Northumberland County and the safety of residents, members of the Port Hope Police Service (PHPS) and Cobourg Police Service (CPS) Criminal Investigations Branches commenced an investigation after receiving information alleging a resident was trafficking illicit drugs in the Town of Cobourg, Municipality of Port Hope, and surrounding areas.

On June 26, 2023, with the assistance of PHPS and CPS uniform members, a traffic stop was conducted on the vehicle on County Road 2 in the Town of Cobourg. The driver and passenger were arrested without incident.

A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the seizure of approximately 160 grams of fentanyl and 28 grams of cocaine.

As a result of the investigation, David Dawson (35), and Jennifer Thompson (45), both of Cobourg, were jointly charged with the following:

• Possession for the purpose of trafficking fentanyl contrary to section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA)

• Possession for the purpose of trafficking cocaine contrary to section 5(2) CDSA

Dawson was additionally charged with the following:

• Possession of proceeds of crime under $5,000 contrary to section 354(1)(a) of the Criminal Code

A search warrant was executed at a residence at 100 King Street, West. As a result of the search of the home, police located and siezed further evidence including multiple scales, cell phones and paraphernalia and a replica firearm, all behavior indicative of drug trafficking .

The total estimated street value of the seized drugs is $68,000.

Both accused were held for bail a hearing.

The seized fentanyl was pressed, coloured, scented, and shaped to resemble that of children’s candy.