On Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at approximately 11:52 PM, a Patrol deputy with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office observed a suspicious vehicle in the 5000 block of Marabou Drive in unincorporated El Paso County.
The deputy stopped the vehicle near the intersection of Hancock Expressway and Yucatan Drive.
Upon contact, the driver, 68-year-old Dale Witham, showed signs of impairment and was determined to be driving under the influence.
A second deputy assisting with the stop observed a glass pipe commonly used for narcotics in the possession of the passenger, 37-year-old Justin Haakenson.
A search of the vehicle revealed approximately 9.5 grams of methamphetamine, 741 blue fentanyl pills, packaging materials consistent with narcotics distribution, a digital scale, and empty syringes. Deputies also found additional drug paraphernalia on both Witham and Haakenson.
The suspects were transported to the El Paso County Jail and booked on the following charges:
Dale Witham: Unlawful Distribution, Manufacturing, Dispensing, or Sale; Driving Under the Influence; and multiple traffic offenses.
He is being held on a $50,000 bond.
Justin Haakenson: Unlawful Distribution, Manufacturing, Dispensing, or Sale; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; and other misdemeanor offenses.
He is being held on a $50,000 bond.
