Seven people are facing criminal charges after a months-long narcotics investigation by the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement team (CODE) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) culminated in a dramatic operation Wednesday night in Madras, authorities announced Thursday.

The investigation focused on a residence in the 400 block of Southeast Grizzly Road, where CODE and DEA agents had been building a case against suspects believed to be distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl in Jefferson County.

High-Speed Chase Ends With PIT Maneuver

Around 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, a Jefferson County Sheriff’s deputy attempted to stop a Chevrolet Malibu near Highway 97 and NE Elm Lane as part of the operation. The driver refused to stop, triggering a pursuit. Deputies deployed spike strips that deflated two tires, but the vehicle kept moving. Officers ultimately used a Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) maneuver to end the chase.

Lt. Mike Landolt with the Bend Police Department said Jefferson County K9 Keira detected narcotics in the vehicle. A subsequent search warrant turned up a handgun and drug-related items.

Second Stop, Search Warrant on Grizzly Road

Simultaneously, drug agents watching the Grizzly Road home observed several people leaving the residence. A second traffic stop was conducted. One suspect — Elizabeth Ann Chavez — fled on foot but was taken into custody nearby. A search warrant was then served on the home, where nine more people were found inside.

Those Arrested

  • Nicholas Alin Speck, 40, Redmond — Attempt to Elude Police (vehicle), Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangering, Felon in Possession of a Firearm
  • Elizabeth Ann Chavez, 40, Madras — Unlawful Possession and Delivery of Methamphetamine, Escape III
  • Brent Lee Waldorf, 35, Madras — Unlawful Possession and Delivery of Fentanyl
  • Kenneth Lee Crutcher, 48, Redmond — Parole Violation warrant, Felon in Possession of a Weapon (Taser)
  • Jeremy James Wisely, 42, Madras — Probation Violation warrant
  • Victor Manuel Chavez, 49, Madras — Disorderly Conduct II
  • Andrew John Jones, 39, Bend — Probation Violation warrant

Lt. Landolt stated that items and materials “consistent with the distribution of drugs” were located and seized at the residence. CODE is a multi-agency task force operated in partnership with local, state, and federal law enforcement. The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible.

Anyone with information about drug activity in Jefferson County is encouraged to contact the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office or CODE tip line.