Quinte West OPP – Three People Facing Drug Trafficking Charges (Names Released)
Three people are facing charges after a seizure of drugs and other items in Quinte West.
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) East Region Community Street Crime Unit (CSCU) began an investigation into drug trafficking in the area this fall.
On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, officers with CSCU, assisted by the OPP Emergency Response Team members, the Canine Unit and Quinte West OPP members, executed search warrants at residences on York Crescent and Alberta Street.
Two people were taken into custody. Officers seized over 24 grams of suspected fentanyl, over 95 grams of suspected cocaine, as well as more than 300 pills of suspected hydromorphone and benzimidazole.
They also seized items associated with drug trafficking and nearly $11,000 in cash. A third person was arrested a short time later.
Jordan LALONDE, age 36 of Quinte West, has been charged with:
Possession of Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – four counts
Possession of proceeds of property obtaine d by crime over $5000
Fail to comply with a release order
This accused has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Belleville at a later date.
Valerie MERCER, age 22 of Quinte West, has been charged with:
Possession of Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – three counts
Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime over $5000
This accused remains in custody pending an ongoing bail hearing process.
Robert RICHARDSON, age 47 of Quinte West, has been charged with:
Possession of Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – four counts
Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime over $5000
Fail to comply with a probation order – two counts
This accused remains in custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Belleville on Thursday, November 27, 2025.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love