While ensuring that it enforces border measures associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) remains committed to keeping Canada safe. Today, the CBSA announced the successful resolution of a two-year investigation and prosecution leading to the conviction and sentencing of an individual from Durham Region for smuggling and other offences.
In July 2018, Border Services Officers working at the Toronto International Mail Processing Centre seized a prohibited blank pistol arriving from Florida declared as "sporting goods." The CBSA's Criminal Investigators conducted a thorough investigation that resulted in the execution of two search warrants that identified Macauley Michael Fletcher, age 45, as the attempted smuggler. During the search of Fletcher's residence criminal investigators seized a suitcase containing a firearms conversion kit, including tools to enable blank firearms to fire live rounds, as well as an over-capacity magazine and blank ammunition.
Fletcher was arrested and charged with several offenses under both the Customs Act and the Criminal Code of Canada. He pled guilty in November 2019 and was sentenced on November 6, 2020 to 2 years and 8 months incarceration for the following offences:
• Customs Act s.159 - attempt to smuggle prohibited goods
• Criminal Code s. 92 (2) - possessing a prohibited device knowingly with no licence
• Criminal Code s. 117.01 - contravening a prohibition order
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Quotes
"This is yet another example of CBSA vigilance, commitment and keen focus on enforcing Canada's border laws. The smuggling of prohibited items over the border will be investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of our laws, and in support of the Government's priorities."
Lisa Janes, CBSA Regional Director General, Greater Toronto Area Region
Quick facts
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Firearms and weapons are high-risk commodities and their interdiction is a CBSA enforcement priority.
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The CBSA and its domestic and international law enforcement partners work together to prevent illegal firearms and weapons from reaching our communities.
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If you have information about suspicious cross-border activity, please contact the CBSA Border Watch Toll free Line at 1-888-502-9060.
