The Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team concluded a short-term investigation with the arrest of a 41-year-old Bend man. According to the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office:
During a concurrent investigation, drug Agents identified the suspect as a fentanyl trafficker in the central Oregon area. The initial investigation alleges he imported fentanyl pills from the Portland area into central Oregon where he distributes them.
During a multi-county surveillance operation, CODE Detectives observed criminal behavior consistent with drug distribution. At approximately, 4:00 a.m. Friday, the suspect was contacted during a traffic stop on Highway 97 at mile post 113 while he was driving a white Audi station wagon.
As DCSO Deputies initiated the stop, the suspect attempted to throw a package containing a commercial quantity of fake fentanyl tablets from the moving vehicle.
CODE Detectives and DCSO Deputies gathered and seized a commercial quantity of fake pharmaceutical tablets made of fentanyl and other evidence of commercial drug sales.
Fentanyl is a very strong synthetic opioid. Although fentanyl is made and used pharmaceutically, it is also produced illegally in Mexico and trafficked into the United States, usually as powder or fake prescription pills. A very small amount of fentanyl can cause someone to overdose and die.
While being transported to the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Jail, the suspect became unresponsive in the back of a patrol car. The DCSO Deputy pulled onto the highway shoulder and provided emergency medical interventions. Redmond Fire Department paramedics arrived and transported the suspect to St Charles Health System – Redmond where he was treated and later released to deputies.
Charges include Unlawful Possession and Attempted Distribution of a Schedule II Controlled Substance (Fentanyl), Tampering with Evidence
