Brothers caught with prohibited firearms in separate incidents
News Release
February 23, 2017 Aldergrove, British Columbia Canada Border Services Agency
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is announcing two separate seizures of firearms from brothers entering Canada at the Aldergrove port of entry (POE) and as a result, both individuals faced prosecution.
On May 31, 2016, Jason Beverett did not declare any firearms and was referred for a secondary examination. A search of his vehicle resulted in an unloaded .40 calibre handgun and two loaded magazines in his luggage.
In a separate incident on the same day, moments after his brother was referred for an examination, Arthur Beverett was referred for a secondary examination. During the search, an unloaded 9mm handgun and a loaded magazine were discovered inside toolboxes in his trailer.
Both were immediately arrested by border services officers and subsequently charged by the CBSA’s Criminal Investigations Section.
On November 16, 2016, Jason Beverett appeared at Surrey Provincial Court and pleaded guilty to making false statements under section 153(a) of the Customs Act and possession of a prohibited firearm with readily accessible ammunition under section 95(1) of the Criminal Code. He was sentenced to a $2,500 fine for the Customs Act offence, a $1,000 fine for the Criminal Code offence, a $300 victim surcharge and a 10-year firearms prohibition.
On December 7, 2016, counsel for Arthur Beverett entered a guilty plea to the same charges as his brother, Jason Beverett, and was sentenced to the same penalties.
Additional multimedia
Quotes
“The joint efforts by our border services officers and criminal investigators demonstrate their collaboration and commitment to ensure the safety of Canada and its residents. We remind all travellers to declare their firearms or rather, leave their handguns at home. If ever in doubt, our officers are here to answer all your questions.”
- Daniela Evans, Director, Pacific Highway District, CBSA
Quick Facts
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In 2016, a total of 214 firearms were seized throughout the Pacific Region. Of these 214 seizures, 24 firearms were seized at the Aldergrove POE.
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The CBSA is responsible for enforcing over 90 acts of legislation, including the Customs Act and the Criminal Code. Any contravention against said Acts may lead to prosecution in a court of law.
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Anyone with information about suspicious cross-border activity is encouraged to call the CBSA Border Watch Toll-free Line at 1-888-502-9060.
Associated Links
Contacts
Media Relations, Pacific Region
Canada Border Services Agency
Telephone: 604-818-9701
Email: PAC_CBSA-Communications@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
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