Four people have been arrested and nearly $90,000 worth of methamphetamine and cocaine has been seized by ALERT.
ALERT Medicine Hat’s organized crime team made the drug seizures on April 11 and April 30, 2024, as two planned vehicle stops were conducted. The Medicine Hat Police Service and Brooks RCMP provided assistance.
“Our team is focused on community safety and by intercepting the drug shipment before it reached the city we have prevented these harmful substances from hitting the streets,” said Ryan Thorburn, ALERT Medicine Hat.
ALERT seized 500 grams of methamphetamine and 573 grams of cocaine. A vehicle was also seized that will be submitted to the province’s civil forfeiture office.
Four people face numerous drug-related offences:
- Aaron Hotchen, 59-year-old from Medicine Hat;
- Melissa Shpak, 34-year-old from Medicine Hat;
- Terry Van Huizen, 31-year-old from Medicine Hat; and
- Heidi Clampitt, 25-year-old from Medicine Hat.
The investigation began in February 2024 in response to community concerns related to drug trafficking in the Medicine Hat region.
In Medicine Hat, members of the public who suspect drug activity can contact the MHPS by calling 403-529-8481 or submitting tips online (anonymously if preferred) via the website at mhps.ca or the MHPS mobile app. The app is free to download and available for both Apple and Android devices.
Albertans who suspect drug or gang activity in their community can call local police or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Crime Stoppers is always anonymous.
ALERT was established and is funded by the Alberta Government and is a compilation of the province’s most sophisticated law enforcement resources committed to tackling serious and organized crime.
Media inquiries may be directed to:
Mike Tucker
Communications Director
Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT)
780-509-3015