A routine traffic stop in Caldwell, Idaho, led to a major drug bust on Thursday night, marking the end of a year-long investigation by Operation Safe Streets.
Traffic Stop Uncovers Meth & Leads to Raid
Officers observed a U-Haul making multiple short stops at a known drug house on E. Spruce St., a location previously linked to drug-related arrests.
When officers attempted to pull over the vehicle for failing to signal, the driver, later identified as Fernando Hernandez, attempted to flee but was eventually stopped. Police discovered a black pull-tie bag containing individually wrapped bags of methamphetamine, which they allege Hernandez tossed before stopping.
Hernandez reportedly admitted to leaving the E. Spruce St. residence just before his arrest. He was charged with:
Eluding officers
Intent to deliver a controlled substance
Driving without privileges
Drug paraphernalia possession
Search Warrant Results in Multiple Arrests
Following Hernandez’s arrest, officers obtained a search warrant for the home on E. Spruce St., leading to multiple arrests:
Hailey Holmes (homeowner) – Confessed to owning the drugs and selling methamphetamine from her home.
Alexis Ortega – Wanted for felony probation violations, attempted to flee but was quickly detained.
Alaina Malacara – Also wanted on drug charges, attempted to escape alongside Ortega but was caught; officers found meth and a pipe in her possession.
Andres Rodriguez – Arrested for probation violation and frequenting a drug house.
Caldwell Police Crack Down on Drug Trafficking
Caldwell Police Chief Rex Ingram emphasized the importance of these arrests in keeping the community safe.
“No one wants to live next to a dope house! This is a classic example of how we systematically remove these bad actors from our community who think that Caldwell is their haven for trafficking narcotics through our great state,” said Chief Ingram.
Authorities say this bust is part of an ongoing effort to dismantle drug networks in the area.
