Traffic Stop Leads to Multiple Drug Related Arrests
Published on February 28, 2025
Last night, Officers from Operation Safe Streets observed a U-Haul pickup making multiple short stops at a home on E. Spruce Street, the activity observed was consistent with drug trafficking activity. A traffic stop was attempted after the vehicle failed to signal. The driver, later identified as Fernando Hernandez, accelerated and tried to evade officers before eventually stopping. As officers approached, they discovered a black pull-tie pouch in a nearby yard, directly along the path where Hernandez had slowed before stopping. The pouch contained multiple individually wrapped baggies of methamphetamine. Hernandez admitted to coming from E. Spruce Street, where prior drug-related arrests have occurred. He was arrested for eluding an officer, intent to deliver a controlled substance, driving without privileges, and paraphernalia with the intent to use.
This arrest led to obtaining a search warrant for the residence on E. Spruce Street. The following arrests and investigation stemmed from a year-long effort to combat the persistent drug use and sales taking place in this home, which has long disrupted an otherwise peaceful neighborhood.
Hailey Holmes – The homeowner was arrested for intent to deliver a controlled substance and paraphernalia with the intent to use after methamphetamine was discovered inside the residence. Holmes admitted ownership of the drugs and further confessed to selling methamphetamine out of her home.
Alexis Ortega – A wanted felony probation absconder with warrants for felony witness intimidation, riot, and probation violation. Ortega attempted to flee out the back door upon the search warrant announcement but was swiftly apprehended thanks to coordination between drone operators and perimeter officers.
Alaina Malacara – Wanted on drug charges, Malacara also ran out the back door with Ortega but was quickly arrested. She was found in possession of a methamphetamine pipe at the time of arrest, and additional meth was discovered hidden in her clothing at the jail. She was charged with resisting arrest, possession of a controlled substance, frequenting a place drugs are used, and paraphernalia with the intent to use.
Andres Rodriguez – Arrested for frequenting a place where drugs are used, and his probation was violated.
The successful execution of this search warrant would not have been possible without the teamwork and dedication of multiple units. The Caldwell Police Department drone team, which played a critical role in tracking and apprehending fleeing suspects, preventing them from escaping into the neighborhood. B Swing Shift who assisted with perimeter control, entry, and key tasks during the warrant service—all while staying late to ensure the job was done. Their efforts directly contributed to the safe and effective operation, leading to multiple arrests and shutting down a long-standing drug house. This operation was the product of data-driven policing, combined with community members trusting us with information about the ongoing criminal activity at the residence.
“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 Rex Ingram, Caldwell Chief of Police.
