Sleeping driver leads to $150K drug bust, Brampton man charged

A Brampton man is facing drug trafficking charges after police in Thunder Bay discovered more than $150,000 worth of drugs in a vehicle while investigating a driver found asleep behind the wheel.

According to the Thunder Bay Police Service, officers with the Primary Response Unit were called to the area of Picton Avenue and Blucher Crescent on June 5 after locating a driver asleep in a vehicle that was still running.

Police said the discovery prompted a further investigation, which led officers to search the vehicle.

During the search, investigators seized more than 115 grams of suspected fentanyl, more than 587 grams of suspected crack cocaine, cash and items commonly associated with drug trafficking.

The estimated street value of the drugs is more than $150,000, police said.

As a result of the investigation, 49-year-old Jermaine Wilson of Brampton has been charged with possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, possession of an opioid for the purpose of trafficking and possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000.

Wilson was remanded into custody following his first court appearance.

Police have not released additional details about the circumstances that led to the driver falling asleep in the vehicle.

The charges have not been proven in court.