Arrest warrant issued for accused meth, fentanyl dealer in Kansas City
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - A warrant has been issued for the arrest of a Kansas City man believed to be behind a large amount of illegal narcotics that have been trafficked into the area.
Jackson County, Missouri, Circuit Court records filed on Thursday, May 22, indicate that Tyler J. Espinoza, 29, of Kansas City, has been charged with trafficking methamphetamine.
A probable cause statement filed by the Jackson County Drug Task Force revealed that in March, law enforcement officials were made aware of a methamphetamine dealer in the area. A confidential informant reported that Espinoza and another individual actively sold meth and other drugs from a camper in Jackson County.
On April 14, investigators indicated that a purchase between the CI and Espinoza was arranged. Around $300 of pre-recorded cash was given to Espinoza in exchange for more than 29 grams of methamphetamine. The pair also discussed the possible purchase of fentanyl.
Task Force agents noted that a second purchase was arranged with Espinoza on May 13. This time, nearly 29 more grams of methamphetamine and 8 grams of powder fentanyl were bought for a total of $800. Espinoza did note the danger of fentanyl to the CI.
The CI told investigators that each time Espinoza was visited, there were multiple tents with individuals inside pitched near the camper. Those inside the tents would often visit Espinoza, allegedly for narcotics.
On Thursday, investigators said a search warrant was executed at Espinoza’s property, which included his camper and every tent on the premises. During the search, multiple firearms, drug paraphernalia, ammunition and just under 4 grams of methamphetamine were seized.
One witness reported to law enforcement officials that they regularly purchased meth and fentanyl from Espinoza. However, Espinoza had left the property around 2 a.m. that day and had not yet returned.
During the investigation, Task Force agents said they found Espinoza had also been a convicted felon, which barred him from possession of a firearm. As a result, he has been charged with trafficking drugs, keeping or maintaining a public nuisance and 2 counts of delivery of a controlled substance.
If convicted, Espinoza could be sentenced to life in prison. A warrant was issued for his arrest on Thursday with the condition of a $100,000 bond. As of Friday, May 23, he does not appear to have been booked yet.
A hearing has not yet been scheduled in the case. Investigators have not identified the second individual as of Friday evening as charges have not yet been filed against them.
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