Jasper man facing dozens of charges in relation to fire near Brockville
A Jasper man is facing multiple charges following an investigation into a suspicious fire at an unoccupied home north of Brockville earlier this month.
Leeds County OPP responded to the blaze shortly after 5 a.m. on Sunday, July 20. No injuries were reported.
Following an extensive investigation, officers executed a search warrant at a property on County Road 7 near Jasper. Police say in a Tuesday, July 29 media release that officers seized a semi-automatic rifle, body armour, brass knuckles, high-capacity magazines and ammunition, several explosive containers, and suspected drugs including fentanyl and methamphetamine. Police also seized a riding lawnmower, a travel trailer, a passenger vehicle, a pickup truck and several cellphones, which they allege are proceeds of crime.
Graham Drew, 40, of Jasper, is facing dozens of charges including:
- Arson – disregard for human life
- Causing an explosion likely to cause bodily harm, death or serious damage to property
- Several explosives-related charges, including possession, storage, and intent to harm or damage property
- Firearms offences, including careless storage, unauthorized possession and possession of prohibited devices
- Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 (three counts)
- Unauthorized possession of a weapon
Charges have not been proven in court.
Drew remains in custody and is scheduled for a bail hearing on July 31.