In the early morning hours of July 20, 2025, at approximately 1:15 a.m., El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Patrol deputies conducted a patrol check near Almont Avenue in the Security-Widefield area of unincorporated El Paso County.
This area has recently experienced high rates of criminal activity, including motor vehicle theft, known narcotics distribution, weapons violations, and numerous wanted individuals.
While conducting their patrol, deputies observed a maroon SUV traveling northbound toward the area with its high beams on. The vehicle stopped briefly in front of a residence before quickly departing as law enforcement approached.
A traffic stop was initiated near the intersection of Maribou Way and Bradley Road. The driver was identified as 65-year-old Walter Bivins, along with an unidentified female passenger who initially refused to provide her name.
Given the vehicle’s connection to a known narcotics location, deputies requested the assistance of a K9 unit.
K-9 officers from the Fountain Police Department responded to the scene with K-9 Odin. A positive alert was given during an open-air check of the vehicle.
Both occupants were detained, and the passenger was identified as 26-year-old Leola Santistevan, who was then found to have four active arrest warrants.
A search of Walter Bivins revealed:
- A clear baggie containing a white crystal-like substance suspected to be methamphetamine
- A separate baggie with a brown substance suspected to be heroin
- Blue pills marked “M/30” believed to be fentanyl
Santistevan disclosed that she was in possession of approximately three fentanyl pills.
A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered additional small baggies and a digital scale, commonly associated with narcotics distribution.
Both individuals were transported to the El Paso County Jail.
Walter Bivins was booked on charges including Unlawful Distribution of a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Controlled Substance, and traffic-related offenses.
Leola Santistevan was booked on her active warrants and issued a summons for drug possession.
“I commend my Patrol deputies for their diligence and proactive policing in a high-crime area, which directly led to the seizure of dangerous narcotics and the apprehension of multiple offenders,” said El Paso County Sheriff Josephy Roybal. “Their vigilance is a testament to the professionalism expected from my deputies. We also extend our sincere gratitude to the Fountain Police Department and K9 Odin for their critical assistance during this operation.”
