On February 27, 2025, a traffic stop in Redding led to the arrest of 43-year-old Timothy Yakaitis and 26-year-old Mireya Duesler on charges related to the sale of methamphetamine and fentanyl.
The Redding Police Department initiated the stop near Canyon Drive and Redbank Road after the vehicle failed to yield and displayed evasive driving behavior. Inside the vehicle, officers discovered shards of methamphetamine scattered throughout, which led to the detention of both individuals.
According to police, Duesler had a “significant amount of methamphetamine” fall from her as she exited the vehicle. Officers discovered she had concealed nearly 11 ounces of methamphetamine within her clothing. Yakaitis was also searched and found with individually packaged bags of fentanyl and U.S. currency. Further investigation of the vehicle revealed an additional two ounces of fentanyl, more methamphetamine, and several items consistent with drug sales.
Both Yakaitis and Duesler were arrested on charges of possession and transportation of narcotics for sale, along with conspiracy. Yakaitis, who has an extensive criminal record, is known to law enforcement in Shasta County and is eligible for additional charges under Proposition 36 due to his prior drug-related convictions.
