In a significant law enforcement operation, two Ottawa residents were apprehended on November 27, 2025, after their vehicle was flagged for having a stolen license plate. The incident, which unfolded on Highway 417 near Almonte, highlights the ongoing battle against drug-related crime in Ontario.

An officer with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) received a notification from an Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR) camera just before noon. The alert led to a traffic stop, where the investigation quickly escalated. The two individuals in the vehicle, identified as Alison Burke-Filewood, 41, from Almonte, and Terrence Owens, 41, from nearby Mississippi Mills, were found to be in violation of court-ordered conditions that prohibited them from being together.

Upon further inspection, officers discovered that one of the individuals had outstanding warrants for arrest. In addition to the stolen license plate, law enforcement seized a significant quantity of drugs, including Fentanyl and Cocaine, raising alarms about the dangers these substances pose to the community.

Burke-Filewood is facing a total of eight charges, including possession of a Schedule I substance (opioids and cocaine), obstructing a peace officer, and failing to comply with a probation order. She is also charged with operating a vehicle without insurance—a reminder of the importance of legal compliance in vehicle operation.

Owens, meanwhile, is facing similar drug possession charges, among others, further emphasizing the serious nature of this case. The duo’s apprehension serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding drug use and distribution in Ontario.

The OPP’s proactive approach in utilizing technology like ALPR is proving effective in combating crime on the highways and in communities. With drug-related crimes on the rise, the police are making concerted efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.

As local authorities continue to address these pressing issues, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. With community cooperation and ongoing law enforcement efforts, there is hope for a safer Ontario free from the grips of drug-related crime.

This incident not only sheds light on individual criminal activities but also reflects the broader challenges that law enforcement faces in combating drug-related offenses across the province. The OPP’s quick response in this case is a reminder of their commitment to public safety and the enforcement of the law.