October 11, 2024 9:39 am
US truck driver arrested at Ontario border after authorities found meth & a stolen firearm hidden in his truck. Charges include smuggling and illegal possession.
A U.S. truck driver was arrested at the Lansdowne, Ontario, border crossing after border agents found methamphetamines and a stolen gun in his truck. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) made the discovery during a search on August 24.
The driver, Cedrick Cunningham, 42, claimed he had crossed into Canada by accident because of his GPS. When Cunningham arrived at the Lansdowne port of entry, CBSA officers directed him to a more detailed inspection. This routine check quickly turned into something bigger.
While searching his truck, the officers found three grams of methamphetamine and a 9mm pistol hidden inside a stereo system. The gun turned out to be stolen. After this, Cunningham was arrested by Canadian authorities.
Police later learned that Cunningham has a criminal record and alleged ties to gangs in Georgia and Tennessee. His criminal background and the stolen gun add to the seriousness of his arrest. Cunningham now faces several charges, including having a stolen gun, bringing meth into Canada, and drug possession.
After the arrest, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) praised the CBSA for their good work. Sergeant Rob Lamont, who is in charge of the Kingston RCMP Detachment, said the CBSA team did an excellent job stopping Cunningham at the border.
“The Kingston RCMP is committed to working with our law enforcement partners. Credit for this arrest goes to the CBSA staff at the Lansdowne port of entry,” said Sergeant Lamont. “Their diligent efforts prevented this individual from freely entering Canada. Illegal firearms are a direct threat to the safety of our communities.”
Cunningham’s arrest is part of a larger concern about crime between the U.S. and Canada. Although he only had a small amount of meth and one gun, police say this could be linked to more criminal activity. Cunningham’s gang ties have raised alarms for investigators, who are now looking into whether he is involved in a bigger smuggling ring.
The case also highlights the CBSA’s increased efforts to stop illegal items from entering the country. In recent years, there has been more focus on stopping the flow of guns and drugs across the border.
Cunningham is scheduled to appear in Kingston Provincial Court on September 6. He could face serious charges, including prison time, if found guilty. Authorities from both Canada and the U.S. will be following his case closely.
The RCMP and CBSA see this arrest as a big win in their fight against cross-border crime. Their partnership will continue to focus on stopping drugs and guns from coming into Canada.