The Kamloops RCMP say five people have been charged with a combined total of 45 charges following a seven-month investigation into drug trafficking and firearm offences.
The charges, which were sworn this week, stem from an enforcement operation that was carried out between September 2023 and April 2024.
A news release said the investigation, which was formed as part of Project EPARALYSIS, led to search warrants being executed at Scott’s Inn Motel and a house on Dallas Drive.
The project focused on disrupting drug distribution networks linked to local motels and homes, a news release said.
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About five kilograms of illicit substances, including cocaine, meth and fentanyl were seized.
Police say the drugs were capable of being mixed into up to 10 kg of product.
Four loaded handguns, three loaded shotguns, a carbine rifle, a taser, about $60,000 in suspected drug proceeds, as well as trafficking materials and cell phones were also seized.
The people charged are:
Justin Robert Ferrier – 13 charges
Kristy Elizabeth Johnson – 12 charges
Ashley Rose Robinson – 12 charges (jointly charged with Ferrier)
Justin Anthony Coughlan St. Arnault – five charges
Yasmine Alyssia Parra – three joint charges with St. Arnault
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A news release says the charges include trafficking controlled substances, possession of prohibited firearms and weapons, identity-related offences, and multiple counts of careless storage.
All five accused were issued summons for their first court appearance which is scheduled for Aug. 25, 2025.
“This enforcement operation represents a substantial disruption to entrenched drug trafficking networks operating in Kamloops,” said Supt. Jeff Pelley, Kamloops RCMP Detachment Commander.
“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.”
