(ST. JOHN’S, NL), February 17, 2022 – The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) Street Crime Unit (SCU) of the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) have dismantled an organized crime network in the province.

In October of 2020, The RNC Criminal Intelligence Unit launched an investigation in response to public safety concerns related to firearm offences within the province. Following the collaborative investigation of specialized units within the RNC CID and the National Weapons Enforcement Support Team (NWEST), members of the RNC CID, Operational Patrol Services and NWEST executed search warrants at two residences in the Northeast Avalon region on February 11, 2022.  Two males were arrested in connection with the investigation.

As a result of this extensive investigation, officers seized a significant number of illegally acquired and produced firearms. Notable seized items include three 3D printers used to manufacture firearms, an array of partially manufactured 3D printed firearms, 3D printed firearm suppressors (silencers), firearm barrels, slides and other parts, four non-restricted firearms, two restricted firearms, nine prohibited firearms, assorted firearm magazines, a ballistic vest (bullet-proof), an assortment of ammunition, and 3D printed brass knuckles.

At this stage, 40-year-old Scott WATERMAN from Torbay has been charged with over 140 offences related to the possession of firearms, and the manufacturing and trafficking of weapons. The accused was held to appear in Provincial Court.

The RNC would like to recognize the RNC SCU and all the supporting officers and civilians for this display of professionalism and teamwork in your efforts to promote safe and healthy communities. The Street Crime Unit was assembled with a mandate to investigate weapons-related offences, and they work closely with the NWEST to probe firearms offences and related crime networks in the province.

This investigation is ongoing, and the RNC SCU ask that anyone who may have information to assist this investigation contact the RNC at 729-8000 or to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

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RNC File # 2021-52663

 

Cst. James. C. Cadigan  #775
Media Relations & Public Communication
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
media@rnc.gov.nl.ca
(709) 729-8658