In a shocking incident, a Richmond Hill father is now facing multiple charges after a loaded gun was discovered wrapped in a sweater in one of his children’s bedroom closets.

The York Regional Police’s Guns, Gangs, and Drug Enforcement Unit had been investigating the suspected drug trafficker for the past month, leading to the execution of a search warrant at the Richmond Hill apartment where the man and his three children reside.

On May 25, during the search warrant operation, law enforcement officers seized a loaded 9mm Ruger handgun, a quantity of cocaine, and cash. The most distressing find was the loaded firearm, which was wrapped in a sweater and concealed in a child’s bedroom closet next to a crib. The police revealed that the handgun and the drugs were easily accessible to the three young children living in the apartment, aged three, eight, and 12.

York Regional Police Chief Jim MacSween expressed his dismay over the situation, stating, “It is deplorable that a loaded firearm and cocaine were easily accessible to three young children in their own home, and shocking the gun was found next to a crib in a three-year-old’s bedroom.” He commended the hard work of the Guns, Gangs, and Drug Enforcement Unit for swiftly removing these life-threatening dangers from the children’s home.

The Children’s Aid Society has been notified and is expected to intervene to ensure the safety and well-being of the children involved. To safeguard the identity of the children, the suspect’s name is being withheld.

The suspect is now facing seven charges, including possession of a loaded prohibited firearm and trafficking cocaine. The severity of these charges reflects the gravity of the situation and the potential harm posed to the children and the community.

This alarming incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible gun ownership and keeping firearms securely stored away from children’s reach. It also underscores the crucial role of law enforcement agencies in combating drug trafficking and ensuring public safety.

The York Regional Police’s successful operation in removing these dangerous items from the children’s home highlights the dedication and effectiveness of their Guns, Gangs, and Drug Enforcement Unit. Their ongoing efforts to address illicit activities and protect communities are crucial in maintaining a safe environment for all residents.

As the legal proceedings continue, it is hoped that the authorities will take all necessary measures to ensure the well-being and protection of the affected children. The case serves as a stark reminder that the safety of children must always be a top priority, and swift action should be taken to remove any potential threats from their immediate environment.