Port Saunders RCMP traffic stop results in charges for two people including trafficking, breach of conditions

June 1, 2026 - Deer Lake, Newfoundland and Labrador
From: Newfoundland and Labrador RCMP

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RCMP in Port Saunders arrested a 56-year-old driver and his 66-year-old passenger on Friday afternoon after a traffic stop resulted in charges related to the seizure of suspected cocaine, items consistent with drug trafficking activity and breach of prior conditions which prohibited the two men from interacting with one another.

On May 29, 2026, at approximately 3:45 p.m., Port Saunders RCMP stopped a vehicle travelling at 113 km/hr in a 90 km/hr posted zone on Route 430 towards Port Saunders.

Police determined that the passenger — Faron Bugden, 66 — was subject to a court-imposed condition that prevented him from being in contact with the driver, 56-year-old Scott Lavers. Bugden was arrested for failure to comply with an undertaking.

A subsequent search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of a quantity of cash, items consistent with drug trafficking activity, pills and suspected cocaine. 

Lavers was arrested and charged with:

• Possession of a controlled drug or substance for trafficking,
• Failure to comply with a probation order.

He was released from custody with conditions and is expected to appear in court in July 2026.

Bugden was remanded and is expected to appear in court today on a charge of failure to comply with an undertaking condition. 

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 by calling 911. 

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