A CBSA investigation leads to criminal charges for importation and possession of prohibited weapons and files
News release
Montréal, Quebec, April 2, 2025 – The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) plays a key role in protecting Canadians and building the country’s economic prosperity by ensuring the safe and effective management of our borders.
Alexis Savard, 25, appeared today at the Shawinigan courthouse. He is charged with:
- smuggling a prohibited device
- possession of a restricted firearm
- possession of a prohibited device
- possession of counterfeit money
- possession of computer data regarding firearms that could be used with a 3D printer for manufacturing purposes.
The CBSA investigation that led to these charges began in August 2023 following the attempted importation of a prohibited device by mail at the International Mail Processing Centre in Vancouver. During a search at the accused’s home on February 14, 2024, CBSA investigators found several files related to manufacturing weapons using a 3D printer.
A file was submitted to the Public Prosecution Service of Canada and charges were laid at the Shawinigan courthouse on March 12, 2025. These charges will have to be validated by the court.
Quotes
“The Canada Border Services Agency Criminal Investigations Section worked diligently to gather evidence in order to file charges in this case. Identifying illicit movement of and intercepting high-risk goods such as firearms, firearms parts and prohibited weapons and devices are priorities at the Agency.”
-Eric Lapierre, Regional Director General, Quebec Region, Canada Border Services Agency
Quick facts
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Any person who smuggles or attempts to smuggle prohibited devices, or who imports goods into Canada by making a false declaration, may be subject to legal proceedings. Smuggling or importing falsely declared goods for criminal purposes is considered an aggravating factor.
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Since January 2024, possession and distribution of computer data that can be used with a 3D printer to manufacture or traffic weapons has been prohibited under subsections 102.1(1) and 102.1(2) of the Criminal Code.
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Report any suspicious cross-border activity by contacting the Border Watch line at 1‑888‑502‑9060 (toll free in Canada and the United States).
Contacts
Media Relations
Canada Border Services Agency
media@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
1-877-761-5945
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