Arrest and Seizure of Fentanyl and Firearms in Camarillo
In a significant operation, detectives from the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office (VCSO) have arrested two individuals from Camarillo after the discovery of over 2 pounds of fentanyl, an AR-15 assault rifle, a pistol, and methamphetamine. The investigation began when a deputy reported that Alexia Topete was involved in drug sales in Camarillo. On Thursday, authorities executed a search warrant at an apartment in the 700 block of Mobil Avenue in Camarillo and a storage unit in the 700 block of Arcturus Avenue in Oxnard.
Upon searching the apartment, detectives apprehended 32-year-old Alexia Topete and 39-year-old Jess Ortiz. Both were arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance. During the search of Topete’s person, detectives discovered methamphetamine and fentanyl concealed on her, according to the VCSO news release.
At the storage unit, detectives made a significant seizure, finding more than 2 pounds of fentanyl, 144 grams of methamphetamine, an unregistered assault rifle, and an unlawfully transferred handgun. These findings led to Topete facing several charges, including possession of a controlled substance for sale, possession of an assault weapon, unlawful transfer of a firearm, and being under the influence of a controlled substance. She is currently held at the Todd Road Jail with a bail set at $250,000 and is scheduled to appear in Ventura County Superior Court on Monday.
In contrast, Ortiz faces a single charge of being under the influence of a controlled substance. He was cited and released, and his court appearance is scheduled for December 15.
The VCSO emphasizes the dangers associated with fentanyl, highlighting its highly addictive and deadly nature when used illicitly. The United States Drug Enforcement Administration warns that a potentially lethal dose of fentanyl is just 2 milligrams, making the quantity seized by the VCSO over 455,500 times the lethal dose amount.
This operation serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against drug trafficking and the importance of law enforcement agencies in removing dangerous substances from our communities. The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office should be commended for their diligence in apprehending individuals involved in the distribution of drugs and illegal firearms.
By working together, we can continue to combat the devastating effects of illicit substances and strive for safer communities for all.