5 arrested during INET operation in Moses Lake

by Richard Byrd
| October 30, 2017 3:00 AM

MOSES LAKE — Five people were arrested in Moses Lake last week in connection with an investigation into a drug deal.

Detectives with Grant County’s Interagency Narcotics Enforcement Team (INET) were following up on an investigation in which they witnessed Raymond Martinez, 45, of Moses Lake, complete a hand-to-hand drug deal, according to information provided by the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

Detectives enlisted the help of the Moses Lake Police Department and Martinez reportedly ran away on foot when he saw patrol vehicles approaching him. He reportedly ran into an apartment in the 500 block of North Grape Drive. Because of Martinez’ criminal history, detectives applied for and were granted search warrants and the Moses Lake Regional Tactical Response Team (TRT) was initiated and attempted to get Martinez to come out of the residence. Martinez reportedly refused and the TRT entered the residence and arrested Martinez.

He was booked into the Grant County Jail for suspicion of possession of drugs with intent to deliver, delivery of a controlled substance, possession of stolen property, possession of a dangerous weapon and an outstanding Department of Corrections warrant.

In addition to Martinez, the following people were taken into custody in connection with the incident: Rebecca Fleming, 47, for possession of heroin; Slade Hardesty, 24, for an outstanding warrant; Veronica Chavez Ramirez, 32, for an outstanding warrant and Brittney Gonzalez, 23, for an outstanding warrant.

“All of the members of the INET partnership, which comprises detectives from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office, Moses Lake Police, Ephrata Police and the Washington State Patrol have been super busy in recent weeks,” Sheriff Tom Jones said. “The strength of the partnership is making a steady impact on drug-related crimes countywide. Citizens need to be aware that drug investigations are underway each day, and that the teamwork of agencies is making the difference.”

Richard Byrd can be reached via email at city@columbiabasinherald.com.