Three residents in Lake Havasu City have been arrested on felony drug charges following an investigation by the local police. The arrests were made during a traffic stop and a subsequent search warrant, resulting in the seizure of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and a firearm. Havasu News reported
An investigation conducted by Lake Havasu City Police officials resulted in the arrest of three local residents on serious drug-related charges last week. The first arrest occurred around 6:30 p.m. on Thursday during a routine traffic stop on Maricopa Avenue. The driver of the vehicle, identified as Shad Haddad, a 52-year-old resident of Havasu, was suspected of discarding an item out of his car window during the stop. Law enforcement officers were able to recover the discarded item, which was later determined to be a bag containing a staggering 92 grams of suspected methamphetamine.
As a result, Haddad was immediately apprehended at the scene and charged with multiple offenses, including possession of drugs for sale, possession of drug paraphernalia, tampering with evidence, and three counts of misconduct involving a weapon. Shortly after Haddad’s arrest, the police obtained a search warrant for a residence located on Challenger Drive, within the 3600 block. The search conducted by officers at the residence yielded drug paraphernalia, a small quantity of methamphetamine, and a firearm.
Following his initial court appearance, Haddad was transferred to Mohave County Jail, where he was held on a substantial $50,000 bond. Additionally, two other individuals were arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation. Elizabeth Starheim, a 58-year-old Havasu resident, was charged with possession of dangerous drugs and possession of drug paraphernalia. After her initial court hearing, Starheim was also transferred to Mohave County Jail, with her bond set at $5,000. As of Tuesday, she remained in custody.
In a separate arrest, Brian Watland, a 56-year-old individual, was charged with one count of possession of drug paraphernalia. However, unlike Haddad and Starheim, Watland was released from custody after his initial court appearance, with the judge allowing him to be released on his own recognizance. It is important to note that the investigation is still ongoing, and further charges or arrests may be made in connection with this case.
In conclusion, Lake Havasu City Police officials successfully carried out an investigation that led to the arrest of three individuals on felony drug charges. The diligent work of the officers involved resulted in the seizure of a significant quantity of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and a firearm. The arrests demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement in Lake Havasu City to combatting drug-related crimes and ensuring the safety of the community..