El Paso County Officers Stop Attempted Drug Smuggling at County Jail

EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) — Deputies with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office (EPSO) stopped an attempted drug smuggling operation into the El Paso County Jail.

According to EPSO, on July 2, 2024, the Colorado Springs Police Department arrested Edward Davidson, 49, on an outstanding warrant and transported him to the El Paso County Jail. When Davidson arrived at the jail, deputies offered him the opportunity to turn over any contraband, including drugs, under Sheriff Roybal’s Drug Smuggling Reduction Amnesty Program.

EPSO says that during the booking process, Davidson became evasive and deputies suspected he was trying to hide something. Deputy Salaman, who was assigned to process Davidson, noticed a foreign object in Davidson’s possession as they continued the standard check process. Davidson continued to try to hide the object from deputies, but eventually confiscated it.

According to EPSO, the foreign object contained 242 fentanyl tablets, 21 oxycodone tablets and 0.48 grams of crystal methamphetamine.

“As Sheriff, I prioritize the safety of the citizens I serve and am committed to ensuring that dangerous drugs do not enter my jail. Deputy Sheriff Salaman’s actions have been vital in protecting the incarcerated citizens under my watch, and I commend him for his actions,” said Sheriff Joseph Roybal.

In accordance with El Paso County Sheriff’s Office policy, the arresting officer took over the investigation and was charged with smuggling.

Davidson remains in custody without bail on unrelated charges.