SWAT Team Assists SCIU Detectives: 20-Time Convicted Felon Arrested, Again
Spokane County Sheriff’s Office Investigative Unit (SCIU) Detectives, with the assistance of the SWAT Team, executed a search warrant this morning in connection with a drug investigation.
On October 11, 2019, at approximately 7:10 a.m., SCIU Detectives served a search warrant at a residence located in the 4000 N. Pittsburg, with the assistance of SWAT.
SCIU Detective Lloyd Hixson, investigating the possession and possible distribution of a large amount of a controlled substance-Methamphetamine, identified 49-year-old Joseph A. Gariepy as a potential suspect. As the investigation continued, Detective Hixson developed probable cause to obtain a search warrant for the residence and Gariepy, a 20-time convicted felon in Washington State. (Robbery, Burglary, Manufacture/Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Attempt to Elude, Assault, Malicious Mischief)
With Gariepy’s substantial criminal and violent history where he is known to have been armed, the SWAT Team was requested to assist in this morning’s operation. SWAT Team members successfully and safely executed the search warrant and contacted Gariepy as well as several other individuals inside the residence. They were all safely detained for additional follow-up.
SCIU Detectives remain at the residence for several hours as they conduct a thorough search for evidence. They recovered and seized Methamphetamine, over $12,000 in cash, ledgers, and additional items of evidentiary value.
Gariepy was transported and booked into the Spokane County Jail for Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Deliver-Methamphetamine.
The additional person contacted at the residence were released without charges.
This remains an active investigation and additional charges and arrests a possible.