Suspected drug dealer arrested in Wenatchee

WENATCHEE — A 30-year-old man with active warrants was arrested Tuesday after a brief attempt to flee from law enforcement, authorities said.

Osvaldo Verduzco-Mendoza was taken into custody following a coordinated effort by the Columbia River Drug Task Force (CRDTF) and the East Cascade SWAT Team. The arrest occurred as Verduzco-Mendoza was driving northbound on Wenatchee Avenue.

According to a statement released Wednesday by Chief Ryan Moody, "On 10/15/2024 detectives from the Columbia River Drug Task Force obtained information that led them to the location of 30 year old Osvaldo Verduzco-Mendoza. Verduzco-Mendoza had active felony and misdemeanor warrants for his arrest. In addition, he was a known gang member, believed to be armed with a hand gun, and actively dealing illicit drugs."

The operation to apprehend Verduzco-Mendoza involved multiple law enforcement units. "Due to the information known, CRDTF requested the assistance of East Cascade SWAT Team, to conduct a stop of Verduzco-Mendoza as he was driving northbound on Wenatchee Ave," the statement explained.

When authorities attempted to stop him, Verduzco-Mendoza tried to escape. "Verduzco-Mendoza attempted to flee in his vehicle. Officers and deputies applied pursuit intervention techniques that prevented the suspect from engaging in a pursuit. As a result, the suspect was taken into custody without further incident," Chief Moody reported.

Upon arrest, Verduzco-Mendoza was found in possession of various substances. The statement detailed, "Verduzco-Mendoza was in possession of fentanyl powder, methamphetamine, and illegal prescription pills."

Following his arrest, Verduzco-Mendoza was booked into the Chelan County Regional Justice Center on his existing warrants. Additional charges are expected as the investigation continues. "Pending the investigation, Verduzco-Mendoza will also be facing charges for Assault 2nd Degree, Eluding and three counts of Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Deliver," the statement concluded.