Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador, August 27, 2025 – Charges have been laid in Provincial Court against 29-year-old Devon Reid of Corner Brook related to the possession and sale of contraband cannabis and alcohol, as well as the possession of a distillation machine (still). The charges are in connection with Operation Bothered which concluded in March of this year.
On March 7, 2025, an authorized search of a commercial business in Corner Brook was carried out by members of Newfoundland and Labrador Liquor Corporation’s (NLC) Regulatory Compliance and Enforcement department, with the assistance of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary. During the search NLC inspectors seized approximately 3.5 kg of contraband cannabis, approximately 210 L of contraband alcohol, and the still. With the assistance of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, NLC inspectors also seized a vehicle associated with the business, under the Cannabis Control Act.
NLC takes great responsibility in ensuring safe access, distribution, and regulation of alcohol and cannabis in the province and would like to remind the public about the importance of purchasing from legal sources. Illegal cannabis and alcohol are not subject to the same testing and quality control standards as regulated sources. As well, the consumption of unregulated cannabis and alcohol products can have adverse health effects and cause serious harm. Cannabis and alcohol products in the province can only be purchased legally from NLC Liquor Stores and Liquor Express locations, approved alcohol licensees, licensed cannabis retailers, and online at ShopCannabisNL.com.
NLC is especially committed to protecting minors from access and exposure to alcohol and cannabis through rigorous enforcement of age-verification protocols, responsible retail training, and licensing regulations. These safeguards are in place to prevent early exposure, reduce risk of harm, and support healthy development.
NLC encourages parents, educators, and community leaders to engage youth in open conversations about substance safety and to reinforce the importance of making informed, responsible choices.
NLC will continue to work with its community partners in law enforcement to further disrupt the illicit market and protect our communities.
NLC is a Crown Corporation of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador with responsibility through the Liquor Corporation Act, the Liquor Control Act, and the Cannabis Control Act for the importation, sale, distribution and management of beverage alcohol and cannabis. NLC also ensures the delivery of programs that promote safe, responsible consumption.
Through 28 corporate retail locations, over 140 liquor express stores, more than 550 Brewer’s Agent outlets, and over 1,300 restaurants, lounges, and other licensees, along with private order services, NLC offers over 4,000 products per year to consumers and its retail partners from more than 20 countries. It also regulates and distributes to 59 licensed cannabis retailers across the province, and offers customers a secure, legal online environment for cannabis purchases via ShopCannabisNL.com.