REDMOND, Oregon - April 10, 2010 - Redmond police, trying a new method to address drug trafficking through the city, set up a special enforcement operation on the North Highway 97 Reroute Thursday afternoon, stopping drivers for traffic violations and searching some vehicles if they had cause to believe drugs might be found.

The "focused traffic patrols" took place between 2:30 and 5:30 p.m., and warning signs were placed along the highway, advising motorists that drug detection dogs could be working in the area, said Lt. Nathan Garibay.

"If, when vehicles were stopped for traffic violations, police had any reason to believe there might have been drugs involved, they furthered their investigation and had the dog check the car," said Capt. Brian McNaughton.

Two people were arrested on drug charges, including the driver of a semi truck that was pulled over and searched, turning up a small quantity of cocaine, McNaughton said.

Garibay said the new step is being taken because, like most communities, Redmond "has found that a significant portion of crimes (are) connected" to drug manufacture, delivery and use.

Redmond police also identified illicit drugs as one of the top community priorities during a strategic plan developed in 2008.

"We are committed to protecting our citizens from all crimes and ensuring our community remains safe," the lieutenant said.

McNaughton noted that Deschutes County is designated a High Intensity Drug-Trafficking Area, which provides federal funding for drug-fighting efforts. The Warm Springs Indian Reservation recently received a similar designation, as did Lane County.

McNaughton said they expect to conduct the traffic/drug operations at least once a month, perhaps every couple of weeks.

Ed. Note: This is an absolute affront to your right to be left alone!  This is the German “Papers, Please!” right here in Fascist Amerika! It is time to stop this tyranny! Do not cooperate with police! Do not comply! Do not allow them to arrest you without a warrant! Fight back! Revolution Now! Independence Forever!

Call to voice your outrage at this egregious violation of the individual right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure. Let your public servants know that you are watching them and will put down their abject tyranny. Put the fear of the people into the hearts and minds of these bloodsuckers and thieves! CALL TODAY!

Redmond Police Department
Police Chief Ronnie Richards
541-504-3400