Real Estate Agency Owner Aids Police Investigation Leading to Drug Arrests Across Ontario
LONDON, ON, June 20, 2012 /CNW/ - The RCMP yesterday executed "Operation OSALE," and the drug-related busts have a London, Ontario connection. Gerry Weir, owner of London-based Sutton Group Preferred Realty, revealed today that he cooperated with police throughout the two-year investigation.
Weir became suspicious about the activities of Thu Tran, an independent contractor, in October 2010 after noticing that three of the four homes recently added to the London Police Service's Marijuana Grow-Op Registry were sold by her. The agent was affiliated with the Sutton Group Preferred Realty office.
"I immediately contacted the RCMP after concluding that one of my independent contractors had sold homes that were subsequently seized by police as marijuana grow operations," said Gerry Weir. "I offered my full cooperation and agreed to provide any information useful to the investigation."
At the RCMP's request, Mr. Weir continued to employ Thu Tran as they believed her termination could interfere with the ongoing investigation and had the potential of hindering a much larger investigation. Mr. Weir complied with the RCMP's wishes and did not end Tran's employment until April 2012 when the RCMP informed him that the investigation was complete.
Weir is proud that he and his team were able to help the police during the investigation, but is disappointed that one of his independent contractors allegedly used the good name of Sutton Group Preferred Realty for illegal activities.
"It is extremely frustrating that the alleged wrongdoing of one person could have a negative impact on a larger group of dedicated, honest and hardworking people here at the Sutton Group Preferred," said Weir. "But, I want to emphasize that any funds related to Thu Tran's transactions have been donated to Neighbourhood Watch London as well as Crime Stoppers London."
"I commend the RCMP for their diligent work and professionalism throughout this investigation, and I thank Sutton Group Preferred agents and staff for their continued dedication through this trying time," said Weir.
Gerry Weir is a real estate broker as well as the owner and broker of record for Sutton Group Preferred Realty. His agency represents over 150 real estate agents and manages six offices. For more than 25 years, he has have been an active member of the London-area real estate community and has served on many local and provincial real estate boards and associations.
For further information:
Gerry Weir
(519) 438 - 2222
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