Red Deer, Alta. – On Feb. 22, 2026, the Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team (CRT) initiated an investigation into weapons trafficking offences, as a result of sharp observations by police.
As part of their ongoing commitment to public safety, Red Deer RCMP CRT, with the assistance of General Duty members, attended a local residence to conduct a compliance check on a known individual who was bound by court-ordered release conditions.
During the compliance check, police observed what appeared to be 3D-printed firearm components. RCMP obtained a warrant to search the residence, which was located in the Clearview neighbourhood of Red Deer, Alta.
The following items were seized during the investigation:
- 3D printer
- 3D printed handgun
- 3D printed receiver
- Barrel of a rifle
- Drug paraphernalia
- 3D printed knuckles
- Various 3D printed firearms,
- Various types of ammunition
- Various containers containing small amounts of drugs
As a result of the investigation, RCMP arrested and charged 2 residents of Red Deer.
Braidon Ophus (30), was charged with:
- Weapons trafficking;
- Unsafe storage of a firearm;
- Possession of a firearm contrary to order;
- Possession of firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized;
- Fail to comply with a release order (x3).
Courtney Smith (26), was charged with:
- Weapons trafficking;
- Unsafe storage of a firearm;
- Unauthorized possession of a firearm.
Following two Judicial Interim Release (JIR) hearings, both Ophus and Smith were remanded into custody to appear before the Alberta Court of Justice in Red Deer on Feb. 24, 2026.
If you have any information regarding crime within Red Deer, please contact Red Deer RCMP at 403-406-2200. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.
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