The Sarnia Police Service Drug Unit arrested a 31-year-old man from the Greater Toronto Area on March 31, 2026, following an investigation that led to the seizure of crack cocaine. The arrest occurred shortly before 5:00 PM and is part of ongoing efforts by local law enforcement to address drug-related crime within the community.
Officers seized 50.45 grams of crack cocaine, which has an estimated street value of $5,000. In addition to the drugs, police recovered $1,412 in cash, cellular phones, drug packaging materials, and a digital scale. The suspect’s vehicle, a 2012 BMW 750i, was also seized as property related to the alleged offences.
Markel Ryshane Sutherland of Scarborough faces charges of possession of crack cocaine for the purpose of trafficking and possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000. He was held for a bail hearing and has been remanded into custody. Police noted that at the time of the arrest, the individual was already on bail in Toronto for several charges, including assault, assault with a weapon, and drug-related offences.
This investigation was conducted by the Criminal Investigations Division, which includes officers with specialized training in drug enforcement and intelligence. The Sarnia Police Service has been active in targeting drug trafficking networks, including the December 2025 effort known as Project Bullpen. That operation resulted in seven arrests and the seizure of over $410,000 worth of cocaine and seven firearms.
Sarnia remains a significant transit point for illegal goods due to its status as a border city connected to the United States via the Blue Water Bridge. The Canada Border Services Agency has reported multiple major narcotics seizures at the crossing in recent months, highlighting the persistent challenge of organized drug trafficking entering the region.
