Imperial County Deputies Seize More Than 53 Pounds of Suspected Narcotics During Traffic Stop

WINTERHAVEN, Calif. — Two people were arrested after Imperial County Sheriff’s deputies allegedly discovered more than 53 pounds of suspected fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine during a traffic stop in Winterhaven, according to the lImperial County Sheriff’s Office.

The Sheriff’s Office said deputies assigned to the Winterhaven Substation conducted a traffic stop on Thursday, July 30, after observing multiple vehicle violations. During the investigation, the driver declined to consent to a search of the vehicle.

Deputies requested assistance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which responded with a narcotics detection K-9. Authorities said the K-9 alerted to the presence of narcotics inside the vehicle.

A subsequent search allegedly uncovered more than 53 pounds of suspected fentanyl, suspected methamphetamine and suspected cocaine. Investigators estimate the suspected drugs have a street value of more than $700,000.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, a criminal history check revealed both suspects had multiple prior narcotics-related convictions.

Imperial County Sheriff’s booking logs identify the suspects as Anthony Gonzalez, 36, and Azelia Trejo, 47.

Booking records show Gonzalez and Trejo were arrested on the following alleged charges:

• HS 11351 – Possession/Purchase of a Controlled Substance for Sale
• HS 11352(a) – Transportation/Sale of a Narcotic or Controlled Substance
• HS 11378 – Possession of a Controlled Substance for Sale
• HS 11379(a) – Transportation of a Controlled Substance
• HS 11395(b)(1) – Possession of a Controlled Substance With Two or More Prior Convictions

The case remains under investigation. As with all criminal cases, the charges are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.