CBSA seizes 53 firearms, charges Cottam Ontario man in smuggling probe

A 60-year-old man from Cottam, Ontario, is facing multiple firearm-related charges after an investigation into the alleged smuggling of firearm parts from the United States.

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) says Frank Charette was arrested and charged following an investigation led by its Ontario Firearms Smuggling Enforcement Team.

The investigation began after a previous CBSA firearm investigation resulted in charges against another Windsor-area man in September 2025.

According to the CBSA, Charette allegedly conspired to smuggle firearm parts from the United States into Canada to manufacture prohibited firearms.

In May 2026, he was stopped at the Ambassador Bridge with firearm parts, police said.

On July 15, 2026, the CBSA, RCMP and Ontario Provincial Police carried out search warrants in Essex County. Investigators seized 53 firearms, including six handguns and two unregistered sub-machine guns.

Authorities also seized 116 magazines, including 39 over-capacity magazines, as well as an auto-sear device.

Charette faces several charges, including smuggling controlled goods, importing goods without a permit, manufacturing prohibited firearms, conspiracy, possession of prohibited firearms and devices, and violations of firearm storage regulations.

His next court appearance is scheduled for November 16, 2026, in Windsor.

The allegations have not been proven in court.