EL PASO COUNTY — Deputies with the El Paso County Sheriff's Office stopped two people from smuggling fentanyl into the El Paso County Jail.
According to the sheriff's office, two people were arrested just days apart from each other. Samantha Peterson was arrested on Thursday, July 23 on multiple traffic charges and an outstanding warrant.
During the intake process using an x-ray scanner, it was discovered Peterson was concealing an object inside her body that later showed to be containing three fentanyl pills.
Deputies say Dominic Dangelo was booked into the El Paso County Jail on unrelated warrants. During his intake process, they also found that he was concealing a foreign object, which he gave to deputies. He was found to be holding 20 fentanyl pills, and four more were found in his property.
The sheriff's office says both were given the opportunity to voluntarily hand anything over before the intake process and both denied to.
Both were charged with the introduction of contraband which carries a sentence of up to six years.
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"From the start, I’ve made it clear: anyone bringing dangerous contraband into our jail will be held accountable. This latest success is a testament to the dedication of my deputies and professional staff in keeping the El Paso Jail safe by intercepting contraband. Since I was sworn in as Sheriff in 2023, we’ve reduced contraband entry by 22%, and this year, we’re on track to achieve a 33% reduction. With upgraded scanners, the Contraband Reduction Drug Amnesty Program and diligent police work, we’re making a significant impact and ensuring accountability.”
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