RCMP release:

Digby RCMP has charged a man under the Cannabis Act after executing a search warrant at a commercial property in Conway.

In July, Digby RCMP received complaints about an illegal cannabis business on Hwy. 303. An RCMP officer visited the unlicensed shop to speak with the manager and indicate the storefront was illegal.

On August 15, after the business failed to cease operations, RCMP officers executed a search warrant at the property. During the search, investigators located and seized a quantity of illegal cannabis, hash, psilocybin, vape products, an ATM, and other items that support charges under the Cannabis Act and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Three people were arrested at that time.

Dustin David Whitman, 31, is facing six charges, including Possession of Illicit Cannabis, Possessing Cannabis for the Purpose of Selling, and Trafficking in Controlled Substances.

The two other people who were arrested at the time of the warrant execution were released without charges. The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are under consideration.

The Annapolis, Shelburne, and Valley Street Crime Enforcement Units assisted with the investigation.

Nova Scotia RCMP reminds residents that the only legal way to purchase cannabis in the province is at licensed locations.

Nova Scotians are encouraged to contact their nearest RCMP detachment or local police to report crime, including the illegal sale of drugs, in their communities. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or using the P3 Tips app.