Ottawa police lay more than 140 charges in major organized crime probe [Video]

After an extensive 18-month investigation, Ottawa police says it has wrapped up an operation targeting a criminal network that was distributing narcotics in the city.

Project Champion resulted in 17 people facing 149 charges, and 14 arrests. Three more individuals are still outstanding and wanted by authorities.

Ottawa Police Service Chief Eric Stubbs emphasized the importance of Project Champion in tackling Ottawa crime, as their efforts aimed to disrupt drug trafficking and curb related gun violence.

“Project Champion was designed to arrest members involved in violent criminal networks and disrupt their Ottawa-based illegal narcotics distribution,” Stubbs said. “Many of these individuals came to the attention of police during other criminal investigations focused on violent crimes, including homicides and shootings.”

Investigators from OPS units specializing in homicide, gangs, street crime and intelligence worked on Project Champion to dismantle a network responsible for distributing cocaine and contributing to street-level gun violence.

Authorities conducted a series of warrant executions …