Two more Sitkans are facing felony charges for alleged drug trafficking.
A Sitka grand jury last Friday (5-29-15) indicted 41-year old Jessica Manzanares on one count of Misconduct Involving a Controlled Substance in the third degree, for possessing methamphetamine with intent to deliver. 58-year old Abelardo Espeleta, was indicted on two counts of the same charge.
According to court records, Sitka Police observed Manzanares entering Cascade Convenience Store the night of May 23rd. Manzanares previously had been criminally trespassed from the store. On arresting her, police allegedly found 5 small plastic baggies containing a powder which tested positive for methamphetamine.
Police also found a scale in her vehicle, which they allege contained methamphetamine residue. According to court records, Manzanares told officers she used the scale to weigh plant seeds.
Two days later, police arrested Espeleta, whom they alleged provided the methamphetamine to Manzanares. A search of Espeleta’s home turned up two small scales, and numerous plastic baggies containing a power residue which tested positive for methamphetamine.
Police also claim to have found two small glass pipes on Espeleta when they were arresting him.
Espeleta has entered a plea of not guilty, and remains in custody in the Sitka Jail pending $10,000 bail. A trial has been scheduled in August.
Manzanares was released on $10,000 bail. She also has a trial date in August.
