Major Drug Bust Rocks Dauphin: RCMP Seize Fentanyl, Cocaine, and Firearm in Bar Arrest

Dauphin, Manitoba – A routine patrol by a vigilant RCMP officer on May 23 has unraveled a significant drug operation in Dauphin, culminating in a major seizure of illicit substances and a firearm. The incident began when an officer on patrol observed suspicious activity indicative of drug transactions occurring at a local bar.

Acting swiftly on these observations, the officer moved to intervene, leading to the arrest of a man at the scene.

A subsequent search of the individual yielded suspected cocaine, a quantity of dangerous fentanyl, and a sum of cash, strongly suggesting involvement in drug trafficking.

The initial arrest quickly escalated into a broader investigation, with the Manitoba RCMP Federal Policing Unit stepping in to provide support.

Following up on intelligence gathered, officers secured and executed a search warrant at a residence located on Fourth Avenue SW in Dauphin. This targeted operation proved even more fruitful.

Inside the residence, investigators uncovered an expanded arsenal of illicit drugs, including additional quantities of suspected cocaine and crack cocaine, as well as psilocybin.

Substantial amounts of cash, along with various items of drug paraphernalia, further solidified the evidence of a sophisticated drug dealing enterprise. Alarmingly, a firearm was also seized during the search, adding a dangerous dimension to the criminal activities.

The individual apprehended at the bar has been identified as Justin Allan Pasternak, 41, of Dauphin.

He now faces a litany of serious charges reflecting the scope of the seizure. These include multiple counts of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (for cocaine, fentanyl, and psilocybin), Possession of Property Obtained by Crime, Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose, and Unsafe Storage of a Firearm.

Pasternak has been remanded into custody, awaiting further legal proceedings.

This decisive action by the Manitoba RCMP underscores their ongoing commitment to combating drug-related crime and enhancing public safety within the community of Dauphin.