Drug enforcement agents in southwest Colorado have busted an alleged methamphetamine ring and seized about 10 pounds of the illegal drug, worth about $450,000.
Fourteen people have been arrested, including one suspect who was carrying about $10,000 in cash, according to a Southwest Drug Task Force media release.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Sixth Judicial District Attorney’s Office were also involved in the long-term probe of the alleged ring. The arrests have been made over the past 45 days, the task force said.
Investigators describe Joseph Fitapelli, 55, of Bayfield, as the alleged king pin of the group.
Police departments in Durango and Cortez, and sheriff’s offices in La Plata County and Montezuma County sheriff offices also provided aid in the case.
Stolen property, including weapons, were also seized.
Investigators pegged the street value of the meth seized at $450,000.
The ring has connections to Las Vegas, California and Mexican drug cartels, the release said.
People arrested have been identified as:
Joseph Fitapelli, 55, Bayfield
Derrik Martinez, 28, Durango
Jose Garcia-Ochoa, 19, Las Vegas
Pamela Chandler, 50, Durango
Peyton St. Germain, 21, Durango
Loyd Groomer, 58, Farmington N.M.
Milton Korthank, 38, Durango
Daniel Gastelo-Ochoa, 24, Las Vegas
Aaron McMinn, 41, Bayfield
Danielle Burton, 38, Bayfield
Ronnie Gunkel, 41, Bayfield
Cristian Lopez, 22, Las Vegas
Miguel Miranda-Sanchez, 23, Las Vegas
Travis Schield, 49, Durango
The investigation is ongoing and police anticipate additional arrests.
Kieran Nicholson: 303-954-1822, knicholson@denverpost.com or
