POLICE – Five suspects face 45 charges after drug & firearms investigation

Kamloops RCMP’s Targeted Enforcement Unit (TEU) has secured 45 criminal charges against five suspects following an extensive investigation into drug trafficking and firearms offenses, police said today (July 31, 2025).

Charges were approved and sworn this week and stem from an enforcement operation conducted between September 2023 and April 2024. The investigation involved a comprehensive strategy and culminated in the execution of search warrants at Scott’s Inn Motel and a residence on Dallas Drive.

During the operation, police seized:
• About five kilograms of illicit substances, including cocaine, methamphetamine,
and fentanyl — capable of being mixed into up to 10 kilograms of end-user product
• Four loaded handguns, three loaded shotguns, a carbine rifle, and a taser
• About $60,000 in suspected drug proceeds, along with digital scales, score
sheets, cell phones, and trafficking materials.

The enforcement action formed part of Project EPARALYSIS, a proactive investigation launched in September 2023 targeting drug distribution networks connected to local motels and residences.

Following a detailed charge approval process, the Public Prosecution Service of Canada approved the charges. Summonses were issued for the five accused, with their first court appearance scheduled for Aug. 25, 2025, in Kamloops Provincial Court.

Charges include trafficking in controlled substances, possession of prohibited firearms and weapons, identity-related offenses, and multiple counts of careless storage.

Individuals Charged:
• Justin Robert FERRIER – 13 charges
• Kristy Elizabeth JOHNSON – 12 charges
• Ashley Rose ROBINSON – 12 charges (jointly charged with FERRIER)
• Justin Anthony Coughlan ST. ARNAULT – 5 charges
• Yasmine Alyssia PARRA – 3 joint charges with ST. ARNAULT

“This enforcement operation represents a substantial disruption to entrenched drug trafficking
networks operating in Kamloops,” said Supt. Jeff Pelley.

“The impact toward this group and the 45 charges sworn are a significant step forward in reducing harm in our community. The seizure of illegal firearms and disruption of drug trafficking activity directly impacts the safety of our streets and the well-being of our residents.”

Sgt. Kevin McIntyre, NCO i/c Targeted Enforcement Unit, added: “Amid competing priorities, including a developing violent conflict affecting local resources, our members acted decisively and safely to dismantle key trafficking operations.

“We remain focused on the individuals who pose the greatest threat to public safety and continue to monitor for fallout following this enforcement action and subsequent charges.”