Oregon woman indicted for drug possession and intent to distribute

Salt Lake City, Utah – An Oregon woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Utah for allegedly possessing illicit drugs with the intent to distribute. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Trina Higgins for the District of Utah. Ruth Mery Argueta, 31, was stopped by a Utah Highway Patrol trooper on Feb. 9, 2023, for an equipment violation while driving a Nissan Frontier pickup truck. During the traffic stop, the trooper smelled burnt marijuana and questioned Argueta. She did not have a marijuana card and showed the trooper more marijuana in the vehicle and a marijuana grinder.

Further investigation led to a search of the vehicle, during which 19 pounds of fake blue M30 pills were discovered. These pills supposedly contained fentanyl, but a test later confirmed that it was fentanyl. Additionally, more than 1 kilogram of heroin, a loaded firearm, roughly one ounce of raw marijuana, rolling papers, more than $4,000, and a burnt marijuana joint were also found in the vehicle.

Argueta has been charged with possession of fentanyl with the intent to distribute, possession of heroin with the intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm. She will make her first court appearance on Monday.

The possession and distribution of illicit drugs like fentanyl and heroin are serious offenses that can have severe consequences for those involved. These drugs are highly addictive and can cause significant harm to individuals and society as a whole. It is important for law enforcement officials to remain vigilant and continue to work to prevent the distribution and use of these dangerous substances.