9 Charged After Magic Mushroom Searches

Published 10/07/2025 · Updated 10/07/2025

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The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has seized significant quantities of psilocybin (commonly known as “magic mushrooms”) and Canadian currency following the execution of nine search warrants.

On Thursday, October 2, and Friday, October 3, the OPS Street Crime and Drugs Units, with support from Neighbourhood Resource Teams, executed search warrants at nine locations suspected of unlawfully selling psilocybin — a Schedule III substance under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

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This is a release from the Ottawa Police Service

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Search warrants were executed at the following locations:
Two locations in the 100 block of Montreal Road
1–100 block of Northside Road
300 block of Churchill Avenue
700 block of Somerset Street West
900 block of St. Laurent Boulevard
Two locations in the 200 block of Dalhousie Street
100 block of Rideau Street
As a result, officers seized:
Over $10,000 in Canadian currency
More than 14 kilograms of dried psilocybin mushrooms
Significant quantities of psilocybin-based products, including capsules, beverages, edibles, and vape pens
Nine individuals have been charged with a total of 18 offences, including:
Possession for the purpose of trafficking a Schedule III substance
Possession of proceeds of crime
The OPS is also issuing a warning to property owners and landlords: knowingly allowing illegal drug sales on their premises may result in criminal charges, proceeds of crime seizures, and forfeiture of assets.

Unlawful drug operations, including illicit mushroom shops, can attract violence. In recent weeks, multiple illegal psilocybin shops have been the targets of arson. These incidents are under active investigation by the OPS Arson and Explosives Unit.

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Police Deployment Fails To Match Change

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“The Drugs and Street Crime Units remain focused on traffickers and groups distributing illegal drugs that cause the most harm to the community. While synthetic opioid traffickers, such as those dealing fentanyl and organized crime groups, continue to be a top priority, those involved in the drug trade who engage in violence or activities that threaten public safety also become top priorities for our teams.” – S/Sgt James McGarry

Members of the public can report suspected drug activity, including use, sales, or manufacturing, online through the OPS website.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477 or online at crimestoppers.ca.