A Salem narcotics investigation ended with a major bust after investigators say they pulled 15 pounds of methamphetamine out of the trunk of a local man's car. Authorities identified the suspect as 59-year-old Edward Garza, arrested Wednesday evening after detectives obtained a search warrant for his vehicle with help from an Oregon State Police drug-detection dog. He now faces charges of delivering meth.
According to KATU, detectives found multiple packages in the trunk once the warrant was served and say the haul amounted to roughly 15 pounds of meth. The station reports Garza was booked on charges of delivering meth following his arrest.
How Oregon Law Treats Big Drug Seizures
Under Oregon law, delivery of controlled substances is a felony, and the quantity seized can sharply increase potential penalties. State statutes define a "substantial quantity" of methamphetamine as 10 grams or more, far below 15 pounds, meaning the amount police say they recovered would qualify for enhanced sentencing under state law, per Oregon Public Law.
Seizures On The Rise Locally And Nationwide
Large meth hauls have been popping up elsewhere in Oregon this spring. In April, a multijurisdiction RADE and DEA operation in Josephine County turned up roughly 90 pounds of meth, according to the Oregon State Police. On the national stage, recent coordinated operations have led to thousands of arrests and tens of thousands of pounds of meth seized, highlighting how federal agents are leaning hard on trafficking networks, according to the DEA.
What’s Next
Per KATU, Garza is currently charged with delivering meth. The outlet notes that its initial report did not include information about bail, upcoming court dates, or other booking details. Prosecutors will determine formal filings and the next legal steps in the case.
