EDGE Unit conducted an investigation that resulted in executing a search warrant of a residence in the area of 102 Avenue and 117 Street on April 22, 2015. This resulted in the seizure of:
- 824 Fentanyl pills with a street value of $41,200.
- 14 grams of cocaine with a street value of $800.
- $8,300 cash seized as proceeds of crime.
“Fentanyl is becoming more widely available in our city,” says Insp. Darren Derko with EPS EDGE Unit. “It’s a relatively new and very dangerous drug that simulates the effects of heroin and oxycodone.”
The suspect was arrested on Thursday, Apr. 22, 2015 in the area of 124 Avenue and 153 Street. His court date is scheduled for April 24, 2015.
Danny Ho Ming Chui, 33, is charged with possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking (x2) and possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000.
824 fentanyl pills with a street value of $41,200
About Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a potent, synthetic opioid analgesic that has been used as a pain reliever and anesthetic since the 1960s. It depresses the central nervous system and respiratory functions.
Fentanyl is diverted via pharmacy theft, fraudulent prescriptions, and illicit distribution by patients or formulated in clandestine laboratories.
Since 2012, there has been an increase in drug seizures where Fentanyl has been mixed with other drugs or chemicals and pressed into counterfeit Oxycodone pills or as a powder in capsules.
Fentanyl can be absorbed into the body via inhalation, oral exposure, ingested or skin contact. It can be also be administered intravenously, intramuscularly or as a skin patch.
Powdered fentanyl is highly toxic and very dangerous to handle. Fentanyl represents an unusual hazard for law enforcement and all other public safety personnel: the improper handling of fentanyl can prove fatal. Lethal amounts vary depending on an individual’s tolerance and physical characteristics but an amount of pure fentanyl about the size of a few grains of table salt can be deadly.
The onset of adverse health effects such as disorientation, coughing, sedation, respiratory distress or cardiac arrest is very rapid and profound, usually occurring within minutes of exposure.
Watch EPS' video on the dangers of Fentanyl