Oakville (Jan 17) – Several weapons and drugs were seized from a member of the Iron Dragons Motorcycle Club who is now facing multiple firearm charges, Halton police said in a news release.
Joseph Wells (42) of Rockwood was arrested on January 11, by the Halton police 2 District Street Crime Unit and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP)-led Biker Enforcement Unit (BEU) when a search warrant was executed at a rural residence in Rockwood.
Rockwood attempted to flee the residence but was immediately apprehended by the OPP Canine Unit. The accused received non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to hospital, police added.
The items seized at the residence included six handguns; seven prohibited weapons (two pairs of brass knuckles, three prohibited knives and two conductive energy weapons); two crossbows;
two expandable batons; 16.6 grams of fentanyl; 12 pounds of dried cannabis flower; A significant quantity of mixed ammunition; five pellet guns; including four long guns.
“The items seized from this residence represent the true dangers that criminal groups such as the Iron Dragons Motorcycle Club pose to entire communities,” said OPP Detective Inspector Scott Wade.
Wells has been charged with 54 offences including Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm, Possession of a Weapon for Dangerous Purpose, Possession of a Controlled Substance for the Purpose of trafficking (Fentanyl), Possess Cannabis for the Purpose of Distribution and Smuggling of Prohibited Weapons (Customs Act).
The joint investigation was supported by members of HRPS and OPP BEU and the Tactics and Rescue Unit. The Canada Border Services Agency also played an important role.
“Serious crime knows no jurisdictional boundaries,” said Halton Police Inspector Dave Costantini. “Partnerships between law enforcement agencies are essential in ensuring the safety and security of all.”
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the 2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4777 ext. 2216.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.
