Alberta Sheriffs have successfully shut down a long-troubled drug house in Calgary's Forest Lawn community, culminating a nearly two-year investigation sparked by close to 150 complaints from concerned residents.
Court Order Enforces 90-Day Closure
The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) unit of the Alberta Sheriffs obtained a community safety order from the Court of King's Bench, forcing the closure of the property located at 2016 41 Street SE. The order took effect at noon on December 17, mandating that the property be vacated and closed for 90 days.
All individuals were required to leave the premises. The home will be boarded up, fenced off, and have all its locks changed to prevent access during the closure period, which is set to last until March 17, 2026. The overarching community safety order will remain in effect until December 17, 2027.
Investigation Uncovers Drug Trafficking Hub Near Playgrounds
The Southern SCAN unit began its probe in 2024 after a flood of complaints from the neighbourhood. The property, situated alarmingly close to two playgrounds and an elementary school, was suspected of being a hub for drug activity and other crimes.
Calgary Police Service (CPS) received 148 complaints about the address. Residents reported constant foot traffic at all hours, alongside visible signs of drug use and trafficking. Acting on this information, CPS executed a search warrant on March 13, 2024.
That raid found 13 people outside the property, with five individuals arrested on outstanding warrants. Inside, investigators uncovered evidence of drug use and trafficking, ammunition, and homemade weapons like nunchucks.
Collaborative Effort Restores Neighborhood Safety
Public Safety and Emergency Services Minister Mike Ellis stated that the closure protects families and holds property owners accountable. "Albertans deserve safety in their neighbourhoods, and when homes become hubs for crime, they erode Alberta's quality of life," Ellis said. "Today's closure – led by Alberta's SCAN team and supported by the Calgary Police Service – protects families, restores order and holds property owners accountable."
SCAN Inspector Brent Pickard emphasized the collaborative nature of the successful operation. "We're grateful to residents whose information helped make this possible," Pickard noted. "SCAN will continue working with the owner and partners to prevent a return to illegal activity." The SCAN unit will continue to monitor the property throughout the closure and the ongoing investigation.
