CRDTF combats illegal drug activity throughout North Central Washington

information released

The Columbia River Drug Task Force (CRDTF), is made up of highly skilled and motivated members of Chelan County Sheriff’s Office, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Wenatchee Police Department, and East Wenatchee Police Department.

In 2024 they had another successful year fulfilling their mission to combat illegal drug activity, address current law enforcement issues facing our community,  and protecting our successful and thriving communities in Chelan and Douglas County.

CRDTF 2024 Report

  • The CRDTF opened 101 new cases, and arrested a total of 92 people.
  • Of the 92 arrests, 27 of them were known gang members.
  • The team also disrupted at least 6 drug trafficking organization operating in Chelan and Douglas Counties.
  • CRDTF seized over $65,000 in cash that were proceeds from criminal activity, and seized approximately 11 vehicles that were involved in criminal activity.
  • CRDTF served approximately 86 search warrants that resulted in the recovery of 46 guns (many of which were stolen), approximately 5,520 grams of methamphetamine, 1,012 grams of cocaine, 6,396 fentanyl pills, and 1,611 grams of pure fentanyl powder.
  • Other drug seizures included heroin, psilocybin mushrooms, Xanax, and a variety of different prescription type drugs that were illicit.

It is safe to say, without the efforts of the task force, the vehicles, guns, and illegal drugs would still be in our community.

In addition to combating the drug epidemic, the CRDTF assists local agencies in dealing with major crimes like homicides, high risk arrests, and sex trafficking to name a few.  Additionally, last year CRDTF provided gang and/or drug education to the Chelan County PUD, North Central Educational Services District, Waterville School District, Eastmont School District, Lewis & Clark Elementary, Orchard Middle School, Cashmere High School and the Wenatchee Police Department Citizen’s Academy.

In summary, the CRDTF remains an integral part of reducing crime rates, minimizing the availability of illegal drugs, and making our communities a safe place to live.