CBSA investigation leads to prison for firearms and drug possession
News release
January 9, 2023 Vancouver, British Columbia Canada Border Services Agency
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is committed to keeping prohibited weapons and restricted firearms out of our communities and ensuring that those who break the laws are held accountable.
Following a CBSA investigation, Justin Edward Groshok, of Burnaby, British Columbia (BC), was convicted for the possession of a restricted firearm and possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking. Groshok was sentenced on November 24th, 2022, to four years in prison and a lifetime firearms prohibition.
In April 2020, officers at the CBSA Toronto International Mail Processing Centre intercepted a postal shipment containing a Taser-style prohibited weapon destined for an address in Burnaby, BC. CBSA Criminal Investigations Section in Vancouver began an investigation.
On July 21, 2020, the CBSA executed a search warrant at the address, where officers seized a loaded restricted handgun, 17 prohibited weapons, 12 Taser cartridges and 248 grams of methamphetamine. Groshok was arrested and charged with offences under the Criminal Code of Canada and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
On June 30, 2022, Groshok appeared in Vancouver Provincial Court and pleaded guilty to:
s. 95(1) Criminal Code – one count of possession of a restricted firearm with ammunition
s. 5(2) Controlled Drugs and Substances Act – one count of possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine hydrochloride) for the purposes of trafficking
Quotes
“The work to stop restricted firearms and prohibited weapons from coming into Canada is an integral part of efforts at the border to protect our communities from criminal activity. I want to thank the CBSA for their quick and decisive action to keep our country safe."
- The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, Minister of Public Safety
“By preventing and investigating smuggling attempts, we’re reducing the risk of harm to Canadians. I want to thank the CBSA employees for their dedication and continued work protecting our communities every day.”
- Nina Patel, Regional Director General, CBSA Pacific Region
Quick facts
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Restricted firearms and prohibited weapons are high-risk commodities and keeping them out of Canada is a CBSA enforcement priority.
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Bill C-21: An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)
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For the latest weapons and firearms enforcement statistics, visit Canada Border Services Agency seizures.
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A list of restricted and prohibited goods, including firearms, can be found here.
Associated links
Contacts
Media Relations
Canada Border Services Agency
media@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
1-877-761-5945
Twitter @CanBorderPAC.