A Calgary man has been denied bail following his arrest on extradition warrants related to the drug trafficking case involving Ryan Wedding. This decision was made by a judge amid serious allegations against Allistair Chapman, 33, who has connections to a vast international drug trafficking network.
Background of the Case
Chapman was one of ten individuals apprehended during an extensive FBI investigation into a billion-dollar drug trafficking organization linked to Wedding, a former Olympic snowboarder from Canada.
Allegations Against Allistair Chapman
- Chapman is accused of cocaine trafficking.
- He allegedly contributed to the murder of an FBI informant by providing the informant’s photograph and assisting in its online dissemination.
- The informant was murdered in a Colombian restaurant, raising serious concerns about organized crime influences.
Judicial Ruling and Considerations
Justice Paul Jeffrey of the Court of King’s Bench cited the strong evidence presented by U.S. prosecutors as a significant factor in denying bail. The judge emphasized that releasing Chapman would erode public trust in the justice system.
“While he did not pull the trigger, he understood the purpose of his assignment was to facilitate murder,” Jeffrey noted in his written ruling. He further stated that the killing of a prosecution witness undermines the rule of law and the ability of the justice system to safeguard society.
Potential Penalties
If extradited and convicted, Chapman could face a sentence of life imprisonment in the United States. His legal counsel sought release on a $500,000 surety backed by his parents, proposing that he reside with them under curfew while awaiting an extradition hearing.
Government’s Position
The Crown characterized Chapman as a “loyal soldier” within the criminal organization and suggested that he posed a flight risk if granted bail. Justice Jeffrey ultimately ruled that Chapman did not sufficiently demonstrate that detention was unnecessary.
Related Developments
Ryan Wedding, implicated as a key figure in this network, was arrested in Mexico and subsequently transferred to California. He had been listed among the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted fugitives.
Chapman is expected to appear again in Calgary court on March 13 to further address his extradition status.
