Task force investigation of suspected drug trafficking operation yields a fifth arrest
The Whatcom Gang and Drug Task Force has made another arrest in relation to the drug trafficking operation that led to the arrest of four people last week, according to Deb Slater with the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office.
Miguel Angel Lopez Ortiz, 28, was arrested Nov. 13 in the 7800 block of 218th Street in Edmonds. Investigators had a search warrant for what they believed to be his residence, as police suspect he has supplied drugs for distribution in Whatcom County, Slater said.
When law enforcement arrived, Lopez Ortiz remained in his home, refusing commands to come out for over an hour, according to Slater. When police were able to search the home, fentanyl and potential drug-distribution items.
Lopez Ortiz reportedly told investigators he only ever transported money, not drugs.
He was arrested on suspicion of delivery of a controlled substance-conspiracy, money laundering-conspiracy, resisting arrest and obstructing law enforcement.
Authorities made four other related arrests while serving search warrants Nov. 6 in Bellingham and Ferndale.
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