Five people accused of smuggling tobacco and loose cigarettes had their charges adjourned again for almost a month, which a judge hopes will provide enough time for the creation of a resolution.
Eugene Rivard, 74; Elizabeth Rivard, 69; Paula Rivard, 48; Douglas Ahenakew, 54; and Samuel Peter Crook, 58; are all accused of transporting 618,000 illegal cigarettes and about 31 kilograms (68 pounds) of loose tobacco worth $115,000, after officers with the Moose Jaw Police Service conducted a traffic stop and executed a search warrant on March 19.
Their defence lawyer, Matthew Schmeling, appeared by phone in Moose Jaw provincial court on July 22. He explained there was still more disclosure — or information — about the case he needed from the Crown.
Judge Daryl Rayner agreed to hold all bench warrants originally issued for the five people. He also agreed to adjourn the matters until Tuesday, Aug. 13, but pointed out Schmeling would have to physically appear in court that day if he planned to enter pleas on behalf of his clients.
“Hopefully, something can happen on that day to move this forward,” Rayner added.
In a previous news release, the Moose Jaw Police Service pointed out it is illegal to possess or use unstamped tobacco. The illegal tobacco trade is unregulated and supports organized crime. This tobacco also gives people – especially young people – easier access to cigarettes. It also takes away millions of tax dollars from public services such as education and health care.
Moose Jaw provincial court next meets on July 23.
