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As we reflect on the third quarter of 2025 and begin the fourth, I want to take a moment to recognize the outstanding work being done across the Oregon-Idaho HIDTA region. The stories and statistics in this edition of the HIDTA Times speak volumes about the dedication, professionalism, and impact of our initiatives. From major drug seizures and complex investigations to life-saving interdictions and collaborative enforcement efforts, their work continues to make a measurable difference in our communities.
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Hillsboro Chief of Police Jim Coleman for his service as Chair of the Oregon-Idaho HIDTA Executive Board in 2025. His leadership and commitment to our mission have been instrumental in guiding our program forward. Following our next Executive Board meeting on December 3rd, District of Oregon Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Mygrant will assume the role of Chair, transitioning from his current position as Vice Chair. We are grateful for Steve’s continued leadership and look forward to his guidance in the year ahead.
We are currently awaiting word from the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) regarding 2025 discretionary funding requests submitted to support critical work across our region. These requests aim to bolster enforcement efforts targeting the fentanyl epidemic, enhance initiatives addressing gun violence, and expand the reach of our primary prevention partners working to stop substance use before it starts. At the same time, bipartisan efforts in Congress continue to advance legislation that would reauthorize ONDCP and the HIDTA Program, reinforcing long-term support for our mission. We anticipate further updates on both of these important pieces of information in the coming months.
Thank you all for your continued service, collaboration, and commitment to our shared mission. The work you do matters - and it is making a difference.
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BADGES
Pocatello Man Sentenced to Over 10 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine Distribution
On July 17, 2025, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced that Jack Edward Newsom, 43, of Pocatello, Idaho, was sentenced to 121 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Newsom to serve five years of supervised release following his prison term.
According to court records, Newsom was arrested on May 8, 2024, after the BADGES Task Force executed a search warrant at his residence and a fifth-wheel trailer parked at a storage facility. Investigators seized:
- 48.9 grams of fentanyl powder and ½ pound of methamphetamine from the residence
- 1 pound of marijuana, ½ pound of methamphetamine, 79.6 grams of fentanyl powder, and 237 fentanyl pills from the trailer
The warrant followed a months-long investigation during which law enforcement purchased 3.5 pounds of methamphetamine from Newsom across five controlled buys between February and April 2024.
This case underscores the continued efforts of federal and local law enforcement to disrupt the distribution of dangerous narcotics in Idaho communities.
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BENT
BENT Targets Drug Trafficking in Eastern Oregon, Seizes Narcotics and Firearms
During the third quarter of 2025, the Blue Mountain Enforcement Narcotics Team (BENT) initiated 30 new investigations involving the distribution and possession of cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other illegal narcotics across Eastern Oregon.
As a result of these investigations, BENT:
• Served 4 search warrants
• Arrested 17 individuals
• Assisted local law enforcement with 5 additional drug investigations
• Seized:
- 24 pounds of methamphetamine
- Over 1 pound of heroin
- More than13,000 dosage units (counterfeit pills) of fentanyl
- 16 firearms
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BENT Concludes Year-Long Investigation with Major Methamphetamine Seizure and Multiple Arrests
BENT recently concluded a year-long investigation into a drug trafficking organization (DTO) operating in Eastern Oregon. The investigation led to the arrest of a primary source of supply (SOS) and a drug courier, along with the seizure of over 20 pounds of methamphetamine.
Throughout the investigation, BENT identified numerous co-conspirators within the DTO, including drug couriers, a stash house used for storing narcotics or cash, and local distributors.
During a coordinated enforcement operation, both the SOS and the courier were arrested on charges of delivery and possession of methamphetamine. To date, at least four members of the organization have been arrested and are pending charges related to the distribution and possession of illegal narcotics.
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BENT Concludes Major Fentanyl Trafficking Investigation
Mid-third quarter, BENT successfully concluded a complex, long-term investigation into a significant drug trafficking organization (DTO). The investigation, which spanned more than 18 months, culminated in the execution of a residential search warrant targeting the organization’s leader.
As a result of the operation, investigators seized 13,067 fentanyl pills, 1.9 kilograms of fentanyl powder, and 2 firearms. The DTO leader was taken into custody and is currently facing federal drug-related charges.
These cases underscore the ongoing commitment of BENT and its law enforcement partners to combat the distribution of dangerous narcotics and the disruption and dismantlement of criminal networks operating in and around Umatilla County communities.
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CODE
Major Illegal Marijuana Operation Dismantled in Klamath County
On August 22, 2025, the Oregon State Police SWAT team executed a search warrant at a rural property in the 11000 block of Cedarwood Drive. Although the address is listed as La Pine, the property is located within Klamath County. The operation was led by the Deschutes County Illegal Marijuana Market Enforcement (DCIMME) team, with support from the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, and Redmond Police Department.
The target of the investigation was Jacob Wayne Dondero, who resides at the property. Inside the residence, investigators discovered a sophisticated marijuana extraction lab, along with more than 4,000 pounds of processed marijuana, marijuana extract, packaging materials, cash, and evidence of illegal distribution. Due to the scale of the operation, two dump trucks and additional trailers were required to remove all materials from the site.
Alarmingly, the extraction lab was located directly beneath the living quarters where four children were found. An adult female was present during the search; however, Dondero was not home at the time. He communicated with law enforcement by phone but refused to surrender.
Due to the hazardous living conditions, the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) intervened and removed the children from the home to ensure their safety. The Oregon State Police Clandestine Lab Team responded to dismantle and safely remove the extraction equipment.
A few days later, Dondero was arrested and subsequently indicted by a grand jury on multiple charges, including illegal marijuana production and endangering the welfare of minors. The total quantity of processed marijuana seized was later determined to exceed 5,000 pounds.
The investigation remains ongoing and highlights the continued efforts of local, state, and federal agencies to combat illegal marijuana operations and protect vulnerable individuals from the dangers associated with unregulated drug activity.
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DINT
Douglas Interagency Narcotics Team Concludes Three-Month Investigation
The Douglas Interagency Narcotics Team (DINT) recently concluded a focused three-month investigation into Caleb M. Plueard, 42, and Erica S. Hewlett, 44, both residents of Oakland, Oregon. The pair were suspected of illegal firearm possession and drug distribution throughout Douglas County.
On September 8, 2025, DINT detectives executed a search warrant at a residence in the 400 block of Wells Road in Oakland. Plueard and Hewlett were located inside the home, where investigators discovered:
- 15 firearms, including a short-barrel shotgun with a pistol grip, two unserialized firearms, and one confirmed stolen firearm
- 3 suppressors, ammunition, and spring-assisted knives
- Approximately 159 grams of suspected methamphetamine, 18.9 grams of suspected fentanyl, 6.5 units of Xanax, and 0.4 grams of suspected psilocybin mushrooms
- Cash, drug packaging materials, and numerous suspected stolen items, including electric bikes, power tools, chainsaws, mowers, and home improvement equipment
Both individuals were arrested and lodged in the Douglas County Jail.
Since the arrest, Caleb Plueard has accepted a plea deal and has already begun serving a lengthy prison sentence.
The investigation highlights the continued efforts of DINT and its law enforcement partners to disrupt illegal drug and firearm activity in Douglas County and ensure community safety.
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Three Found Deceased in RV Near Roseburg; Drug Overdose Suspected
On September 14, 2025, three individuals were found deceased inside an RV at the Shady Point RV Park, located at 2703 Hwy 99S, just south of Roseburg. A fourth individual, found in medical distress, was transported to Mercy Medical Center for treatment.
At approximately 11:00 AM, a Roseburg Police officer and a Douglas County Sheriff’s deputy arrived at the RV to contact its occupants regarding an unrelated investigation. Upon arrival, they observed signs that raised immediate concern for the safety of those inside. Entering the RV, they discovered four individuals—three deceased and one in critical condition.
Medical personnel were dispatched immediately, and the surviving individual was transported by ambulance to Mercy Medical Center.
Due to evidence at the scene, deputies and officers suspected a drug overdose and contacted DINT detectives. Investigators found signs of recent drug use, including fentanyl and methamphetamine, as well as drug paraphernalia, packaging materials, scales, and records. Detectives believe the individuals had recently returned from a location north of Douglas County—possibly out of state—where they had obtained the drugs.
Approximately one ounce of fentanyl and nearly two ounces of methamphetamine were recovered from the scene.
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HIT
HIT Assists in Major Fentanyl Seizure Following Overdose Investigation
In August 2025, the Portland Police Bureau HIDTA Interdiction Team (HIT) supported the Narcotics and Organized Crime (NOC) unit in an overdose investigation that led to a significant drug seizure. After NOC identified and arrested the initial suspect involved in the overdose—referred to as a “level one” dealer—HIT members quickly acted to identify and apprehend higher-level individuals in the distribution chain.
Later that same day, HIT executed follow-up enforcement actions resulting in the seizure of:
- 25 pounds of fentanyl
- $30,256 in U.S. currency
- 1 firearm
This operation highlights the collaborative efforts between HIT and NOC in disrupting drug trafficking networks and preventing further harm to the community.
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HIT Investigators Target Drug Couriers Using Commercial Bus Lines
During the third quarter of 2025, HIT focused its efforts on criminal narcotics interdiction, specifically targeting couriers transporting illegal drugs into the Portland metropolitan area via commercial bus lines.
Through the use of consensual encounters and multiple narcotics detection K9s, HIT investigators arrested four individuals—all of whom were federally indicted as a result of the investigations.
Total seizures included:
- 95 pounds of methamphetamine
- 2 pounds of cocaine
- 7 pounds of heroin
These interdictions not only removed a significant quantity of dangerous drugs from circulation but also initiated broader investigations into drug trafficking networks operating within the Portland area and beyond.
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Major Fentanyl Distributor Arrested in East Portland
In September 2025, as part of the ongoing Fentanyl Enforcement Mission targeting street-level dealers in East Portland, HIT conducted a controlled purchase of ½ ounce of fentanyl from a known suspect. When the suspect arrived to complete the transaction, he was taken into custody.
A search of the suspect’s vehicle revealed 42 grams of fentanyl on his person and an additional 572 grams in a bag located in the backseat. Investigators then executed a search warrant at the suspect’s residence, uncovering a fentanyl manufacturing operation. Inside, they found:
- Over 2 kilograms of fentanyl
- Mannitol (a common cutting agent)
- Blenders, mixing equipment, and digital scales
- $85,885 in cash
In total, 3,025 grams (over 3 kilograms) of fentanyl were seized. The suspect was arrested on federal charges and remains in custody.
A forensic search of the suspect’s phone revealed he was a major fentanyl distributor in the greater Portland area. Evidence showed he had been receiving large, multi-kilogram shipments of fentanyl and redistributing them to other dealers. He was also moving substantial amounts of cash south as payment for the drugs. Photos and records on the device indicated that, in recent months, the suspect had trafficked approximately 53 kilograms of fentanyl and handled over $854,000 in cash.
HIT and its partners are actively following up on this intelligence, and additional federal cases are expected to result from the investigation.
This operation was a collaborative effort involving the following agencies and units:
- HIDTA Interdiction Taskforce (HIT)
- Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- Portland Police Bureau (PPB) Narcotics and Organized Crime (NOC) Unit
- PPB East Precinct Neighborhood Response Team (NRT)
- PPB East Precinct Officers
- PPB Street Coordination Team (SCT)
- PDX Taskforce
- TriMet Police and Analysts
- PPB TriMet Division
- Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) Special Investigations Unit / Dangerous Drug Team (SIU/DDT)
- Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office (MCDA)
- U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO)
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ISP DHE
DHE/HIDTA Operations Yield Significant Results Across Idaho
In the third quarter of 2025, the Idaho State Police Domestic Highway Enforcement (ISP DHE) team led two major multi-agency operations in different regions of the state, targeting drug trafficking and criminal activity on Idaho’s highways.
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Ada & Canyon Counties – July 27–29, 2025
In coordination with the Ada County Sheriff’s Office, ISP DHE conducted a focused enforcement operation surrounding the Hells Angels national run. The operation resulted in:
- 123 traffic stops
- 18 drug-related cases
- 4 felony drug charges
- 51 misdemeanor drug charges
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Kootenai & Shoshone Counties – August 27–29, 2025
A second operation was carried out in northern Idaho with support from the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, Coeur d’Alene Tribal Police Department, Idaho Department of Corrections (IDOC) Misdemeanor Probation & Parole, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Coeur d’Alene Police Department’s Community Action Team (CAT). Results included:
- 91 traffic stops
- 22 drug-related cases
- 9 felony drug charges
- 47 misdemeanor drug charges
- 2 DUI arrests (including 1 excessive DUI)
- 1 vehicle pursuit
- 7 arrests of Undocumented Individuals
- 16 K9 deployments
These operations demonstrate the effectiveness of interagency collaboration in disrupting drug trafficking and enhancing public safety across Idaho’s transportation corridors.
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Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Seizure in Bingham County
On July 31, 2025, an ISP trooper conducted a traffic stop in Bingham County on a 2024 Silver Ford Edge for following too close. During the encounter, the trooper observed the odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle.
A probable cause search of the vehicle was conducted revealing a plastic container with methamphetamine, marijuana and Suboxone strips.
The drugs seized included approximately 2.9 ounces (83.5 grams) of methamphetamine, 15.7 grams of marijuana, and 29 dosage units of Suboxone.
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Traffic Stop in Twin Falls County Leads to Methamphetamine Seizure
On August 20, 2025, an ISP trooper conducted a traffic stop on a 2016 white Hyundai Veloster in Twin Falls County for improper passing. During the stop, the trooper observed the passenger exhibiting heightened alertness and physical signs consistent with recent drug use.
A narcotics detection canine was deployed and gave a positive alert, prompting a probable cause search of the vehicle. Inside, troopers discovered several glass pipes and multiple bags containing methamphetamine.
In total, 5.4 ounces (154.3 grams) of methamphetamine were seized.
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Traffic Stop in Bonneville County Leads to Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Seizure
On August 26, 2025, an ISP trooper conducted a traffic stop on a 2025 blue Honda CR-V in Bonneville County for an improper lane change. During the stop, the driver disclosed that they were currently on probation. The driver’s probation officer authorized a search of the vehicle.
The search revealed several items of drug paraphernalia, including a pipe, prescription drug bottles, and a magnetic tin can containing fentanyl pills. Additional items located in the vehicle included:
- $1,890 in U.S. currency
- Heroin
- A small bag and a rubber container with methamphetamine
- Prescription medications
Total drug seizure:
- Approximately 255 fentanyl pills
- 4.1 grams of methamphetamine
- 0.6 grams of heroin
- 6 dosage units of methadone
- 21 dosage units of amoxicillin
These cases reflect the continued dedication of Idaho State Police and partnering agencies to intercept illegal narcotics, disrupt drug trafficking networks, and enhance public safety across Idaho’s communities and highways. Through proactive enforcement and interagency collaboration, law enforcement remains committed to reducing the impact of dangerous drugs throughout the state.
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MADGE
MADGE Seizes Over 34 Pounds of Methamphetamine in Major Drug Trafficking Case
In August 2025, the Medford Area Drug and Gang Enforcement (MADGE) task force concluded a long-term investigation into a suspect believed to be transporting large quantities of methamphetamine from Southern California for distribution in the Medford area.
As a result of the investigation, MADGE detectives seized 34.53 pounds of methamphetamine. During the operation, the suspect admitted to previous drug sales and was arrested on charges of possession and delivery of methamphetamine – commercial offense. The suspect was lodged in jail following the arrest.
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MADGE Investigates Overdose Deaths and Seizes Deadly Narcotics in Ongoing Efforts to Combat Fentanyl and Heroin Distribution
During the third quarter of 2025, MADGE continued its aggressive efforts to combat the distribution of fentanyl and heroin in Jackson County. These efforts included two unrelated "Len Bias" investigations, which tragically resulted in three overdose deaths.
A "Len Bias" case refers to a drug delivery resulting in death investigation, where a dealer may be held criminally responsible if the drugs they sold caused a fatal overdose.
In one case, MADGE detectives executed a search warrant in July and arrested a suspect believed to have sold drugs to an individual who later died from an overdose. Tragically, the arrested suspect also later died from a drug overdose.
In a separate, long-term investigation, MADGE detectives served multiple search warrants that led to the seizure of a substantial quantity of fentanyl and heroin, along with three firearms. Investigators determined that the suspects had traveled to the San Francisco Bay Area to purchase fentanyl with the intent to distribute it in Jackson County.
Two suspects were lodged on charges of possession, manufacturing, and delivery of fentanyl and heroin – substantial quantity. One of the suspects was also charged with felon in possession of a firearm.
These cases highlight the deadly impact of fentanyl in Southern Oregon and the critical role of law enforcement in holding traffickers accountable and preventing further loss of life.
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MADGE Arrests Suspect in Double Overdose Case; Large Drug Seizure Recovered
In September 2025, MADGE served a search warrant and arrested the primary suspect connected to the sale of drugs that led to two fatal overdoses.
During the operation, detectives seized over half a pound of fentanyl, along with significant quantities of methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine. The suspect was lodged on multiple charges, including possession, manufacturing, and delivery of fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine. Additional charges were filed for distributing drugs within 1,000 feet of a school.
This case has been referred to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for federal prosecution. Because it qualifies as a Len Bias case—where a drug dealer can be held criminally responsible for a fatal overdose—the suspect is facing mandatory prison time.
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MCSO DDT
MCSO Dangerous Drug Team Seizes Seven Pounds of Fentanyl in Troutdale Investigation
On September 9, 2025, investigators with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Dangerous Drug Team (MCSO DDT) executed a search warrant at an apartment in Troutdale as part of an ongoing narcotics investigation. A secondary search of a nearby vehicle was also conducted.
In total, investigators seized approximately seven pounds of fentanyl, including both pills and powdered form. They also recovered a large metal press—commonly used to manufacture counterfeit pills—along with respirator masks, indicating precautions taken during drug production.
Additional evidence found at the scene showed the suspects were actively cutting, weighing, pressing, and packaging fentanyl for distribution. Drug tools and paraphernalia consistent with large-scale manufacturing were also seized.
This case remains under investigation as authorities work to identify the full scope of the trafficking operation.
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MCSO Dangerous Drug Team Arrests Suspect, Seizes Meth, Fentanyl, and $40,000 in Cash
On September 3, 2025, MCSO DDT investigators arrested 34-year-old Ricardo Olivas Sentael as part of an ongoing narcotics investigation that led to the seizure of significant quantities of drugs and cash.
While conducting surveillance on a known drug location in northeast Portland, investigators observed Olivas Sentael engaging in a suspected drug transaction. Deputies followed him to his vehicle and, during a subsequent search, discovered half a pound of fentanyl.
Further investigation revealed that Olivas Sentael was staying at a motel in southeast Portland. A search of his motel room later that day resulted in the seizure of:
- Over nine pounds of methamphetamine
- One kilogram of fentanyl
- Thousands of dollars in U.S. currency
The combined street value of the fentanyl and methamphetamine was estimated at $34,000, and the total cash seized was approximately $40,000.
Olivas Sentael was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center, and the case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO). MCSO would like to acknowledge the support of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the USAO for their assistance in this case.
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OREGON HIDTA DEA
Fentanyl October Mission Yields Major Results in Portland Metro Area
In October 2025, a coordinated fentanyl enforcement surge led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Portland District Office (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Portland Field Office (FBI), the Portland Police Bureau (PPB), and the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office (MCSO), produced significant outcomes in the fight against drug trafficking in the Portland Metropolitan area.
Funded through a reallocation of $20,000 in existing Oregon-Idaho HIDTA funds, the mission supported overtime operations for PPB’s HIDTA Interdiction Team (HIT) and MCSO’s Dangerous Drug Team (DDT). This strategic investment led to the following results:
- 12 arrests
- 6 firearms seized
- $190,637 in U.S. currency recovered
- 14 pounds of fentanyl
- 72.5 pounds of methamphetamine
- 697 grams of cocaine
- 9.3 kilograms of ketamine
- 32 pounds of marijuana
- 28 grams of MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine)
- 10.4 grams of DMT (dimethyltryptamine)
This operation underscores the effectiveness of interagency collaboration and targeted funding in disrupting the flow of dangerous narcotics into the community. The mission builds on the success of a similar DEA-led initiative earlier this year and highlights the ongoing commitment to public safety in the region.
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OSP DHE
OSP K9 Interdiction Stop Leads to 33-Pound Methamphetamine Seizure
In late July 2025, an Oregon State Police (OSP) Senior Trooper assigned to the K9 Interdiction Program conducted a traffic stop on a northbound vehicle with Washington plates on Interstate 5 in Linn County for observed traffic violations.
During the stop, the driver appeared evasive and displayed several indicators consistent with narcotics trafficking. K9 Mille, a certified drug detection dog, was deployed and alerted to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle.
A consent search of the vehicle revealed a cardboard box in the trunk containing approximately 33 pounds of methamphetamine. The driver was arrested and lodged at the Linn County Jail.
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OSP and DEA Seize Over 120 Pounds of Narcotics During I-5 Traffic Stop
In late July 2025, an OSP Lieutenant assigned to the K9 Interdiction Program conducted a traffic stop on a northbound, Washington-plated rental vehicle on Interstate 5 in Linn County for observed traffic violations.
During the stop, the driver and passenger provided conflicting and provably false information about their travel plans. Both individuals also displayed additional indicators of criminal activity. The driver admitted to possessing a small amount of methamphetamine but refused consent to search the vehicle.
OSP K9 Pecos was deployed and alerted to the presence of narcotics. A DEA Task Force Officer (TFO) Sergeant responded to assist with the investigation. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed several bags in the trunk containing:
- 112.2 pounds of methamphetamine
- 5.2 pounds of cocaine
- 4.4 pounds of fentanyl pills
Both suspects were arrested and lodged at the Linn County Jail.
These cases highlight the continued success of interagency collaboration in disrupting large-scale drug trafficking operations along Oregon’s highways.
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USMS
U.S. Marshals Locate and Arrest Fugitive Connected to The Dalles Death Investigation
On August 2, 2025, the United States Marshals Service Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force (PNVOTF) was requested to assist in locating Richard Michael Robinson, a person of interest in a death investigation involving a deceased woman found in a storage unit in The Dalles, Oregon. At the time, Robinson also had an active arrest warrant for failure to register as a sex offender.
The investigation revealed Robinson had ties to Washington, Colorado, and Utah, prompting the PNVOTF to send leads to those regions in an effort to locate him.
On August 25, 2025, the PNVOTF coordinated with the U.S. Marshals Service Colorado Fugitive Task Force, which successfully located and arrested Robinson outside Denver, Colorado, without incident.
Two days later, on August 27, a Wasco County grand jury indicted Robinson on a charge of second-degree abuse of a corpse. He was later transported and lodged at Northern Oregon Regional Corrections (NORCOR) in The Dalles on September 17, 2025, where he remains in custody pending potential additional charges.
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PNVOTF Locates and Arrests Suspect in Gresham Homicide of 13-Year-Old Boy
On April 27, 2025, 13-year-old Liam Spahnle-Bailey was tragically killed by a stray bullet while sleeping in his parents’ apartment in Gresham, Oregon. Following an extensive investigation, Gresham Police identified Anthony Hunter as one of three suspects responsible for the fatal shooting.
The PNVOTF adopted the case and began pursuing leads to locate Hunter. In August 2025, the PNVOTF and Gresham Police Department held a joint press conference, announcing a $5,000 reward for information leading to Hunter’s arrest.
On September 9, 2025, the PNVOTF received credible information that Hunter was staying in the Northeast Portland area. With the assistance of the Portland Police Bureau Special Emergency Response Team, Hunter was located and taken into custody without incident that morning.
This arrest marks a significant step forward in the pursuit of justice for Liam and his family.
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WIN
WIN Team Dismantles Fentanyl Trafficking Operation in Portland’s Pearl District
On September 28, 2025, the Westside Interagency Narcotics (WIN) Team concluded a two-month investigation into a Honduran drug trafficking organization (DTO) operating in Portland’s Pearl District. The organization was suspected of distributing fentanyl in the area.
A federal search warrant was executed, resulting in the seizure of:
- 321.3 grams of powdered fentanyl
- $9,078 in U.S. currency
- One handgun
Two individuals were taken into federal custody as a result of the operation.
Investigators discovered the powdered fentanyl concealed in creative hiding places, including a large travel mug inside one suspect’s backpack and a small portable speaker.
The case highlights the ongoing threat posed by fentanyl trafficking and the efforts of local and federal agencies to disrupt these dangerous networks.
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WIN Team and DEA Dismantle Fentanyl Supply Chain Linked to Overdose Death
During the third quarter of 2025, WIN launched an investigation into a fatal fentanyl overdose that occurred in King City, Oregon. Through the course of the investigation, detectives identified the Level 1 and Level 2 suppliers responsible for distributing the fentanyl that ultimately led to the victim’s death.
The Level 2 supplier cooperated with investigators and identified the Level 3 distributor, whose residence was located in Salem, Oregon, with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and advanced electronic surveillance.
Investigators obtained a court-authorized phone ping on the suspect’s device and tracked their movements to Tacoma, Washington, where they stayed briefly before returning to Oregon. WIN and DEA personnel coordinated surveillance and interdicted the suspect upon their return.
A search warrant was subsequently executed at the suspect’s residence, resulting in the seizure of:
- 32 pounds of fentanyl
- 11 pounds of heroin
- $41,000 in U.S. currency
The suspect was arrested and later indicted by the United States Attorney’s Office in Portland. They are currently awaiting trial on federal charges. This case highlights the WIN Team’s commitment to holding drug traffickers accountable and preventing further loss of life from fentanyl-related overdoses.
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Law Enforcement Initiative Activity
Oregon-Idaho HIDTA Law Enforcement Initiative Activity Report
Investigative Activity
- DTO-MLOs Dismantled/Disrupted: 83 in 2024; 53 YTD 2025
- Cases Opened: 3,523 in 2024; 2,048 YTD 2025
- OCDETF Qualified Cases: 10 in 2024; 4 YTD 2025
- RPOT/CPOT Designated Cases: 1 in 2024; 0 YTD 2025
Drug Seizures (Kg)
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Cocaine: 165.1 kg in 2024; 101.8 kg YTD 2025
- Fentanyl: 179.3 kg in 2024; 278.5 kg YTD 2025
- Heroin: 20.5 kg in 2024; 26.6 kg YTD 2025
- Marijuana: 168,719.7 kg in 2024; 53,838.5 kg YTD 2025
- Methamphetamine/Ice: 1,568.4 kg in 2024; 882.3 kg YTD 2025
Drug Seizures (DU)
- Fentanyl: 3.24 million in 2024; 599,278 YTD 2025
- Other Illicit Drugs: 72,696 in 2024; 11,811 YTD 2025
Asset Seizures
- Cash: $8.74M in 2024; $5.99M YTD 2025
- Non-Cash Assets: $5.99M in 2024; $4.31M YTD 2025
Law Enforcement Outputs
- Arrests: 2,156 in 2024; 1,333 YTD 2025
- Firearms Seized: 893 in 2024; 718 YTD 2025
- Wiretaps: 45 in 2024; 9 YTD 2025
- Vaping Cartridges Seized: 1,603 in 2024; 1,282 YTD 2025
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Training Initiative
The Training Initiative's mission is dedicated to supporting law enforcement by providing crucial, relevant training opportunities. Our core mission remains the funding of annual training conferences for the Oregon Narcotics Enforcement Association (ONEA) and the Idaho Narcotics Officers Association (INOA), alongside assisting Oregon-Idaho HIDTA initiative members with funding for additional narcotics-related training throughout the year.
Third Quarter 2025 Training Highlights
During the third quarter of 2025, the Training Initiative successfully hosted or provided funding for a wide range of essential training events and meetings, including:
- PMP Training
- Oregon Narcotics Enforcement Association's Annual Training Institute
- 11th Biennial Northwest Alcohol Conference
- 2025 HIDTA Leadership Training
- Top Gun 4
Upcoming Training Opportunities:
Looking ahead, the Training Initiative is excited to support several key training courses in the coming months, many of which are offered virtually for maximum accessibility:
- Federal & State Criminal and Civil forfeiture training.
- Fentanyl Safety and awareness (Virtual)
- Illicit Drug Manufacturing (Virtual)
- Synthetic Opioid Response (virtual)
- Vehicle and Foot Shadowing training
- California Narcotics Officers' Association (CNOA)
Additionally, the Training Initiative is actively collaborating with National Guard schoolhouses to bring two highly valuable courses—the Basic Narcotics Investigators Class and the Narcotics Supervisor Training Course—directly to the Oregon-Idaho HIDTA area.
Details and registration information for future training events can be found on the Oregon-Idaho HIDTA website: http://oridhidta.org/training-events
Please don't hesitate to reach out to Oregon-Idaho HIDTA Deputy Director/Training Coordinator Ned Walls with any questions or suggestions -
Contact Information:
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Analytical Support
Oregon-Idaho HIDTA Information Sharing and Analytical Coordination Center (ISACC)
Terra Duncan – ISACC Manager
503.881.5092
terra.duncan@dpsst.oregon.gov
ISACC Strategic Analyst – Coming soon!
McKenna Bishop – Idaho HIDTA Analyst
Office: 503.884.7330
Cell: 208.407.4790
Mckenna.bishop@fusion.idaho.gov
Deconfliction Services
Oregon
Oregon DOJ Analytical & Criminal Investigative Services Section (ACISS)
Watch Center: 800.442.6248 or oregonwatch@wsin.riss.net
Western States Information Sharing Network (WSIN)
Watch Center: 800.952.5258 or watchcenter@wsin.riss.net
Idaho
Idaho Criminal Intelligence Center (iC2)
Direct law enforcement line: 208.846.7676 or icic@fusion.idaho.gov
Rocky Mountain Information Sharing Network (RMIN)
Investigative Research: 800.821.0640 option 2 or intel@rmin.riss.net
Overdose Response Strategy
Oregon
Matt Ferguson - Drug Intelligence Officer
503.508.2923
matthew.ferguson@dpsst.oregon.gov
Isabelle Cisco - Public Health Analyst
404.242.1426
icisco@cdcfoundation.org
Idaho
Kevin Hudgens - Drug Intelligence Officer / Idaho Program Coordinator
208.573.4239
Kevin.hudgens@isp.idaho.gov
Karyn Kershaw - Public Health Analyst
404.398.8244
Karyn.kershaw@dhw.idaho.gov
Visit Us Online: ORIDHIDTA.org
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