CAMROSE, AB – A woman from Hanna and a man from Drumheller are facing multiple drug trafficking charges after a routine traffic stop in Camrose on February 1, 2026, led to a significant drug seizure.
According to the Camrose Police Service (CPS), an officer stopped a vehicle in the east end of the city for making an illegal U-turn. The driver, identified as Crystal Luider of Hanna, was issued a ticket for the traffic violation.
Police checks revealed that Luider had active charges for trafficking narcotics.
CPS says the male passenger initially refused to identify himself, but officers noted a distinctive spider tattoo on his left hand. Further investigation positively identified him as Dustin Powell of Drumheller. Police determined Powell had a lengthy criminal record for drug trafficking and an outstanding warrant for his arrest.
Powell was arrested at the scene. Police say a search of his person uncovered a large quantity of drugs and associated paraphernalia.
Luider was also arrested under the Controlled Dangerous Substances Act. A subsequent search of the vehicle yielded more drugs and equipment.
In total, police say they seized 29 grams of crack cocaine, 22 grams of methamphetamine, and 18.5 grams of fentanyl, along with a scale, wrappers, a cellphone, and cash.
Powell has been charged with three counts of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking and Proceeds of Crime. Luider is charged with two counts of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking.
Both individuals were remanded into custody after being unable to meet court-set bail conditions.
“This is a great example of proactive policing, where a simple traffic stop led to drug trafficking charges against two ‘non-local’ offenders bringing drugs into our community,” commented Acting Staff Sergeant Scott Sveinbjornson.
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