Narcotics seizure near Parachute

Three arrested in traffic stop that uncovered an estimated $2.6 million in counterfeit OxyContin pills

GCSO PRESS RELEASE
September 18, 2024

Garfield County Sheriff’s Office deputies along with investigators from Garfield County SPEAR (Special Problem Enforcement and Response) Task Force contacted a person in a vehicle for a traffic violation on I-70 near Parachute.

During the traffic stop Deputies and Investigators located approximately 59.64 pounds of suspected counterfeit OxyContin pills that are believed to contain fentanyl. It is estimated to be approximately 222,360 pills with an estimated street value of $2,668,320.

The driver of the vehicle, (Leslie Lopez-Rojas, date of birth: 4/2/2004) from Phoenix, Arizona, was arrested for importing a schedule II controlled substance into the state, a class I drug felony, along with other criminal charges. Two additional accomplices were arrested.

This is an ongoing investigation.

The Garfield County Sheriff’s Office and SPEAR were assisted by, The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Rifle Police Department and the Garfield County Emergency Communication Authority.

SPEAR is a multi-jurisdictional task force based out of the Garfield County area. Anyone with information on criminal activity is encouraged to call SPEAR at (970) 945-0453 or contact your local law enforcement agency.

All subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Any questions please contact SPEAR Board Chairman, Sheriff Lou Vallario at (970) 945-0453.