As of press time Thursday, three suspects remained at large in connection to Operation Under the Radar, a local drug sting.
The Montezuma County Sheriff’s Office and Cortez Police Department conducted joint operations in the drug sting on Wednesday.
Five suspects have been charged with unlawful distribution of a controlled substance. All were issued warrants for their arrest.
According to Sheriff Dennis Spruell, Joseph Williamson, 27, of Mancos, and Kaiyoomia Schamp, 18, of Cortez were in custody Thursday.
Debbie Foster, 45, of Dolores; Cameron Wilson, 25, of Mancos; and Bruce Ramsey, 45, of Cortez remained at large.
“Law enforcement is currently seeking the other individuals,” Spruell posted on the sheriff’s office Facebook page.
“Do not contact (the suspects),” Spruell said. “Call law enforcement if you know the individuals whereabouts.”
A 100,000 bond has been issued for each suspect.
Cortez Police Chief Roy Lane said officers had worked the case for several months, which included drug buys at several homes and other places.
“We used some informants, and some (involved) surveillance,” Lane said.
Lane said he wouldn’t classify Operation Under the Radar as a drug ring, but rather individuals suspected of drug sales.
“Some of the defendants had no connection to the others,” said Lane. “I think this was above-street-level operation, but not a drug cartel.”
Attempts to reach sheriff officials for additional details, including the type and amount of drugs seized, were unsuccessful as of press time.
tbaker@cortezjournal.com