Brooks RCMP charge two with drug trafficking

Brooks RCMP charged two residents with possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking after executing search warrants on a Lakewood Road home and three vehicles on Wednesday, seizing suspected methamphetamine, cocaine and drug-trafficking equipment.

The arrests followed an investigation that began in mid-2026. The Brooks RCMP Crime Reduction Unit launched the probe, with help from the Alberta Sheriff's Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods team, after receiving reports of suspected drug trafficking at a residence in the 700 block of Lakewood Road in Brooks.

Warrants were executed on the afternoon of Oct. 28 by the Brooks Crime Reduction Unit, Brooks and Bassano patrol members, and the Medicine Hat Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team. Police seized approximately 50 grams of suspected methamphetamine, approximately 5.5 grams of suspected cocaine, suspected buffing agents, electronic scales, cell phones and packaging materials. Two vehicles were also seized as instruments of an offence.

Jonathan Matthews, 39, of Brooks, was charged with two counts of possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking. Mercedee Stolson, 28, of Brooks, was charged with one count of the same offence. Both were released on conditions following judicial interim release hearings.

Cpl. Aaron Lagace of the Brooks Crime Reduction Unit said the case challenges a common assumption in the drug trade. "There is a misconception that dealing small quantities of drugs will keep dealers off police radar," Lagace said. "This investigation proves otherwise. Drug trafficking, regardless of the amount involved, fuels harm in our communities. Those who choose to participate in the drug trade will be investigated and face the consequences of their actions."

Matthews and Stolson are both scheduled to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Brooks on Nov. 18, 2026.

None of the allegations have been proven in court.