News release
Police charge two people for trafficking fentanyl and weapons offences
November 2, 2026
-
East Leicester, Nova Scotia
From: Nova Scotia RCMP
On this page
Content
The Cumberland County Street Crime Enforcement Unit (CCSCEU) has charged two people following the execution of a search warrant in East Leicester.
On October 29, as part of an ongoing fentanyl trafficking investigation, the CCSCEU, with assistance from Criminal Intelligence Service Nova Scotia, the Nova Scotia RCMP Emergency Response Team, the Colchester Community Action Team, and the Amherst Police Department, executed a search warrant at a residence in the 4200 block of Hwy. 204.
Matthew Aaron Hunsley, 42, and Nicole Laura Tower, 34, both of East Leicester, were arrested.
During the search, officers seized approximately 11 grams of fentanyl, cocaine, a quantity of pills, and drug-related paraphernalia. A loaded, unsecured shotgun and two crossbows were also located inside the residence.
Hunsley and Tower have each been charged with:
- Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (four counts)
- Careless Use of a Firearm
- Contravention of Firearm Storage Regulations
- Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose
- Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
- Possession of Firearm Knowing its Possession is Unauthorized
Hunsley is also charged with four counts of Failing to Comply with Release Order.
They were remanded into custody and are scheduled to appear in Amherst Provincial Court on November 2.
Nova Scotians are encouraged to report criminal activity, including the illegal sale of drugs, to their local police. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or through the P3 Tips app.
Note: The Cumberland County Integrated Street Crime Enforcement Unit includes members of the Cumberland County District RCMP and the Amherst Police Department.
File #: 2026-1285713