As a result of an ongoing investigation, Western Alberta District (WAD) RCMP Rural Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) obtained and executed a search warrant on Aug. 13 at a residence located in the area of 96 avenue and 102 street in Grande Prairie. 

As a result of the search, the following items were seized: 285 grams of methamphetamine, 163 grams of cocaine, 2.5 litres of GHB, a loaded .357 handgun, a large sum of cash, a 2005 Chevrolet pick-up truck, a 2012 BMW Alpina B7, 2009 Lincoln Navigator SUV, 2018 Mazda 3 and a 2007 Forest River fifth wheel trailer. The vehicles and the large sum of cash have been seized as proceeds of crime. 

Matthew James Bergeson, 37, and Taylor Marie Leslie, 25, both of Grande Prairie, are jointly charged with: 

  • Two counts of possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking: methamphetamine and cocaine 
  • Possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000 
  • Possession of a firearm without being a holder of a license 
  • Careless use of a firearm 
  • Possession of a weapon knowing not a holder of a license 
  • Possession of a loaded prohibited firearm without a license 

Matthew James Bergeson is facing the following additional charges: 

  • Twelve counts of possession of a firearm while prohibited by an order 
  • Four counts of operate a conveyance  
  • Fail to comply with condition of release 
  • Two counts of did without lawful excuse procure identity document  
  • Possession of controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking: GHB 
  • Possession of stolen property under $5,000 

Following a judicial hearing, Bergeson was remanded into custody and is awaiting a bail hearing that is scheduled in Grande Prairie Provincial Court on Sept. 2. Following a judicial hearing, Leslie was released and is scheduled to attend Grande Prairie Provincial Court on Sept. 2.