Files 2024-3134 / 2026-544

The Central Saanich Police Detective Unit seized drugs, cash and vehicles after executing two search warrants. 

In July 2025, the unit began an investigation into a suspected drug trafficker operating out of a residential home in Central Saanich. Over the five months, officers witnessed multiple drug transactions, leading to the arrest of John Patrick SAMPSON, a sixty-year-old male from Central Saanich.

In November 2025, officers from the Central Saanich Police, alongside the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team, executed a search warrant on the residence. Police seized evidence related to drug trafficking including: 

• approximately $18,000 in Canadian currency
• approximately 25 ounces of cocaine
• approximately 19 ounces of psilocybin (magic mushrooms)
• drug packaging and processing materials, including an industrial pill press
• two pairs brass knuckles

Officers also seized thousands of dollars worth of items suspected of being proceeds of crime, which have been referred to the BC Civil Forfeiture Office:

• a classic Dodge 2-Door Coupe
• a Plymouth Barracuda
• a Chevrolet Silverado 
• a classic powerboat
• two Harley Davidson motorcycles
• two "chopper style" motorcycles
• 43 guitars

A second investigation commenced in February 2026 into the continuation of drug trafficking and a second search warrant was executed on the residence. Police seized evidence related to drug trafficking including: 

• $5000 in Canadian cash
• cocaine

Recommended charges of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking and Possession of a Prohibited Weapon have been approved by Crown Council. SAMPSON’s next court appearance is on July 9th, 2026 in Victoria.