On June 12, 2018, Opaskwayak Cree Nation RCMP and The Pas RCMP began an investigation into a male they believed was trafficking methamphetamine. During the course of the investigation, a traffic stop was conducted on the suspect. Methamphetamine and items related to the trafficking of the drug were located.
Continued investigation determined the suspect was involved in the sexual exploitation of multiple youth and was attempting to obtain sexual services from those youth in exchange for drugs and alcohol.
Eric Leonard Richards, 64, from Athabasca, AB, but living in The Pas, is charged with the following offences:
- Sexual Exploitation of a Young Person x3
- Obtaining Sexual Services for Consideration from Person under 18 x2
- Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking
- Failure to Comply with an Undertaking
Richards remains in custody.
