SECURITY-WIDEFIELD, Colo. — Two individuals were arrested early Sunday morning after El Paso County Sheriff’s deputies discovered multiple types of drugs during a traffic stop in a known high-crime area.
According to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office (EPSO), the incident occurred around 1:15 a.m. on July 20 near Almont Avenue. Deputies were patrolling the area, which has recently seen a spike in crimes including vehicle theft, narcotics distribution, weapons violations, and fugitives.
While patrolling, deputies spotted a maroon SUV with its high beams on. The vehicle briefly stopped in front of a residence, then quickly sped away as law enforcement approached. Deputies pulled the SUV over near Maribou Way and Bradley Road.
The driver was identified as 65-year-old Walter Bivins. The female passenger initially refused to provide her identity but was later identified as 26-year-old Leola Santistevan, who had four active arrest warrants, EPSO said.
Due to the SUV’s alleged connection to a known drug location, Fountain Police Department’s K9 unit was called in. K9 Odin alerted officers during an open-air sniff around the vehicle, leading to a search and detention of both suspects.
Deputies found:
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A clear baggie of suspected methamphetamine
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A brown substance believed to be heroin
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Blue pills marked “M/30”, suspected fentanyl
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Three fentanyl pills admitted to by Santistevan
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Small baggies and a digital scale inside the SUV, consistent with drug distribution
Both Bivins and Santistevan were booked into the El Paso County Jail and cited for drug possession.
Sheriff Joseph Roybal praised the deputies’ work, saying, “Their vigilance is a testament to the professionalism expected from my deputies.” He also thanked the Fountain Police Department and K9 Odin for their critical support.
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Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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