November 7, 2006

Drug Eradication

Chelan County Sheriff Mike Harum reports on November 1, 2006, after a five month joint investigation into the trafficking of illicit drugs (methamphetamine) the DEA Drug Task Force Spokane, the Columbia River Drug Task Force and the Chelan County Sheriff’s office dismantled a major crystal methamphetamine and cocaine distribution organization operating out of the Chelan and Wenatchee areas.

This drug trafficking organization had connections throughout Chelan County, Spokane County, and King County. Two male suspects from Chelan have been arrested. Two residences and four vehicles were searched. Four and one half pounds (2 kilos) of cocaine, and one pound of crystal methamphetamine were seized from Rick Mendoza of Navarre Coulee Road, Chelan. Another unidentified male was arrested in Chelan, and agents seized approximately 15 pounds of crystal methamphetamine and one kilo of cocaine from him. Vehicles, firearms, and cash were also seized. 

The Columbia River Drug Task Force was re-organized in October of 2005, and currently houses detectives from Chelan County, Wenatchee Police Department, and Kittitas County. The Spokane DEA Drug Task Force consists of investigators from the DEA, Spokane County, Spokane City, the Washington State Patrol, and Washington National Guard. Both Task Forces work together on a regular basis.

In a recent report compiled by Washington State, the Columbia River Drug Task Force continues to be recognized as a top task force in the state. They are number three in arrests and number five in drug related arrest.