A mother’s intercepted texts helped nab a local fentanyl dealer, Bracebridge court heard recently.
Appearing in court virtually, Jerry Henderson, 48, pleaded guilty to trafficking fentanyl.
Court heard that a local woman was concerned for her daughter’s welfare when she sent the Bracebridge OPP a series of texts laying out suspected drug activity. The texts were between her daughter and Henderson, and he discussed providing her with “purple” – a common street name for fentanyl.
Police executed a search warrant at Henderson’s residence and found scales and paraphernalia. They also searched his phone and the messages were confirmed, as well as other messages related to drug trafficking
Court heard that Henderson has a criminal record and a joint position was put forward for a suspended sentence and probation
Defense lawyer Eginhart Ehlers said the submission was admittedly in the low range for this type of drug offence but Henderson realized afterwards his actions were completely inappropriate. Ehlers said Henderson has since moved to Victoria, B.C. and has stayed away from drugs and turned his life around.
Ehlers added that there were triable issues, such as the fact no substances were actually found during the warrant execution.
Federal Crown Kim Miles said the joint position was “very, very specific to this situation.” She said if they knew the amount of fentanyl, or saw the transaction actually take place, they likely wouldn’t be discussing such a lenient sentence.
Justice Edward Carlton said he would need time to think about it and determine whether the proposed sentence can be reconciled with other cases of fentanyl trafficking.
Instead of imposing a sentence he instead ordered a pre-sentence report.
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