The accused was charged with possession of approximately 32 grams of crack cocaine for the purpose of trafficking and possession of proceeds of crime following a police surveillance operation.
The Crown alleged that officers observed the accused conduct a street-level drug transaction before arresting him and locating drugs and cash during a search.
The court identified numerous inconsistencies and logical conflicts within the police officers’ testimony regarding surveillance, the arrest, and the timing and manner of the searches.
An independent civilian witness also gave evidence that materially contradicted aspects of the officers’ account and was found credible and reliable.
Considering the inconsistencies and the witness evidence together, the court concluded the Crown failed to prove possession and related offences beyond a reasonable doubt and entered acquittals.
