Traffic stop leads to drug arrest in El Paso County

EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) -- El Paso County Sheriff's Office arrested two individuals after a traffic stop led to deputies locating drugs within the vehicle, on July 20 near Almont Avenue in the Security-Widefield area of El Paso County.

Deputies say they were conducting a patrol check around 1:15 a.m. in what EPSO says is an area that has recently experienced high rates of criminal activity, including known narcotics distribution.

According to EPSO, during the patrol, deputies saw a maroon SUV traveling northbound toward the area with its high beams on. Deputies say the vehicle stopped briefly in front of a residence before quickly leaving as law enforcement approached.

A traffic stop was made near the intersection of Maribou Way and Bradley Road, identifying the driver as 65-year-old Walter Bivins, and an unidentified female passenger who initially refused to provide her name, according to deputies.

Deputies say they requested a K9 due to the vehicle's connection to a known narcotics location.

EPSO says K9s from the Fountain Police Department responded to the scene with K9 Odin, who gave a positive alert.

The passenger was identified as 26-year-old Leola Santistevan, who was then found to have four active arrest warrants, and later told police she had three fentanyl pills on her, says EPSO.

A search of Walter Bivins revealed, according to EPSO:

• A clear baggie containing a white crystal-like substance suspected to be methamphetamine
• A separate baggie with a brown substance suspected to be heroin
• Blue pills marked “M/30” believed to be fentanyl

Deputies say a search of the vehicle uncovered small baggies and a digital scale, which police say is commonly associated with narcotics distribution.

According to EPSO, Bivins was charged with the alleged unlawful distribution of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, and traffic-related offenses.

Santistevan was booked on her active warrants and issued a summons for alleged drug possession, says EPSO.

Deputies say both were taken to the El Paso County Jail.

Stay up to date with the latest local news, sports, and investigations by downloading the KRDO13 app. Click here to download it from the Apple App Store. Android users can download it from Google Play here.