News release

West District GIS conducts traffic stop in Deer Lake, arrests pair for drug possession

February 3, 2026 - Deer Lake, Newfoundland and Labrador
From: Newfoundland and Labrador RCMP

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RCMP West District General Investigation Section (GIS) arrested two people on Friday afternoon after a traffic stop near Deer Lake resulted in the seizure of cocaine, prescription pills and drug paraphernalia.

On January 30, 2026, at approximately 2:00 p.m. an officer with West District GIS was on patrol near Deer Lake and conducted a traffic stop on Route 430, with assistance from RCMP Traffic Services West. 

Police observed an open container of alcohol and a bag of pills inside the car, and the driver and a passenger were placed under arrest. A search of the passenger led to the discovery and seizure of a quantity of suspected cocaine. Police also located and seized pills and items consistent with illicit drug activity inside the vehicle. 

The passenger, 56-year-old Scott Lavers of Port Saunders, was arrest for possession of a controlled substance under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. 

The driver, a 43-year-old woman, was released from custody without charges.  

Lavers is expected to appear in provincial court in March 2026. 

The investigation is continuing, with additional charges possible. 

Cocaine is a leading cause of overdose deaths in Newfoundland and Labrador. Naloxone is ineffective in combatting cocaine overdose.  If you suspect someone is overdosing on cocaine, immediately seek medical attention.

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