RCMP charges Pharmacist and Owner

HAMILTON, ON, May 22, 2018 /CNW/ - Members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Hamilton Niagara Regional Detachment Serious and Organized Crime Section, with the assistance of Health Canada and the Ontario College of Pharmacists conducted searches at two Pharmacies and one residence in Hamilton.

The investigation began in February 2018 when the RCMP received a referral from Health Canada regarding Mt. Cross Pharmacy in Hamilton and possible diversion of opioids and synthetic opioids such as fentanyl.  Umair Nasim and Angelo Kirkopoulos were identified as part owners of Mt Cross Pharmacy.

On May 4^th, 2018, Angelo Kirkopoulos was arrested due to an unrelated ongoing investigation by the Hamilton Niagara Regional Detachment RCMP Financial Crime Section; at that time Mr. Kirkopoulos had the following items in his possession: 6800 oxycodone tablets, 40 100 mcg/h fentanyl patches, and over $60,000.00 in Canadian Currency.

As a result, with the assistance of Health Canada and the Ontario College of Pharmacists, the RCMP executed search warrants at Mt. Cross Pharmacy, Mountain RX and Health Care. The home of Mr. Kirkopolous was also searched. 

Charged is Angelo Kirkopoulos (40) of Hamilton with:

• Fraud Under $5,000, contrary to the Criminal Code;
• Uttering Forged Documents, contrary to the Criminal Code;
• Two counts of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking, contrary to the Controlled Drug and Substances Act.

Mr. Kirkopoulos is scheduled to appear at the Hamilton Courthouse located at 45 Main Street East, on June 13, 2018, at 09:00 hours in Courtroom #5.

Umair Nasim (48) of Hamilton is charged with Contravening the Regulations of the CDSA.

Mr. Nasim is scheduled to appear at the Hamilton Courthouse located at 45 Main Street East, on July 11, 2018, at 09:00 hours in Courtroom #204.

"The issue of illicit opioids remains a top concern for the RCMP and we remain committed to collaborating with our partners to actively pursue the criminal networks that are jeopardizing the health and well-being our citizens. This investigation shows the result of how good partnerships are essential in order to keep our communities safe," stated Inspector Ann Koenig, Acting South West RCMP District Commander.

Anyone with information regarding criminal activity is encouraged to contact their local police, the RCMP at 1-800-387-0020 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

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SOURCE Royal Canadian Mounted Police