Early Sunday morning in Pueblo County, a routine investigation took a turn when sheriff’s deputies uncovered a cache of contraband in Blende. After being called to address a fraud report at Battle Ground Skilled Gaming located at 205 Santa Fe Dr., authorities stumbled upon a vehicle containing drugs, a firearm, and a live explosive device. The call, which came in around 2 a.m., involved counterfeit $100 bills passed by customers to an employee of the establishment, as reported by the Pueblo County Sheriff's Office.
Upon arrival, deputies made contact with two of the suspects, Jackson Gill, 33, and Kayla Dockins, 28, questioning them about the fraudulent transaction. During this process, it became evident that Gill was subject to a felony warrant from Huerfano County. A search of their vehicle, prompted by the visible presence of suspicious items, led to the discovery of methamphetamine, an explosive device alongside a shotgun, and various personal identification cards not belonging to the trio.
With probable cause established, law enforcement officers procured a search warrant to thoroughly investigate the vehicle. Their search yielded 15 grams of methamphetamine, assorted credit cards, and identification cards connected to other individuals. The Pueblo Metro Bomb Team was summoned following the pipe bomb's identification as a credible threat. Experts safely removed the hazardous device from the vehicle, ensuring no immediate danger to the surrounding area.
Gill now faces multiple charges, including possession of explosives and a forged instrument, unlawful possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, ID theft, and acting as a fugitive of justice, among others. Dockins has been charged with similar drug-related offenses and first-degree forgery. Also taken into custody, Gabriel Rivera-Leiba, 37, was charged with criminal possession of identification documents, as well as unlawful possession of a controlled substance. The arrestees were booked into the Pueblo County Jail, awaiting court proceedings regarding their alleged involvement in these activities.
