EPD Traffic Stops Leads to Driver’s Arrest for Possession of Heroin for Sale
On 11/30/10, at about 7:30 PM, an EPD patrol officer stopped a red Ford F-150 pick-up truck for traffic violations in the vicinity of 6th and P Streets. A subsequent records check revealed the driver, later identified as 30-year-old Jose Cantu Ramirez of Fortuna, was unlicensed. Cantu was also unable to provide sufficient proof of personal identification to officers.
POP officers responded to assist with an inventory search of Cantu’s truck prior to its being impounded pursuant to 14602.6 CVC. Officers subsequently located approximately 23.8 grams (gross weight) of tar heroin packaged for sale and concealed inside a hidden container in the vehicle. Officers also located a digital gram scale with heroin residue (for weighing out controlled substances for sale) in the vehicle and $740.00 cash (suspected drug sales proceeds) in Cantu’s pockets.
Cantu was arrested and transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was booked for possession of heroin for sale, transportation of a controlled substance, and driving without a license. He was initially booked under a false name he gave officers at the scene: Claudio Ramirez Cantu. However, jail staff subsequently ascertained his true identity during the intake and booking process.
Jose Cantu Ramirez