On December 30, 2024, 34-year-old Shandra Rathke was booked into the El Paso County Jail following a bond revocation related to an Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance charge. As part of Sheriff Roybal’s Contraband Reduction Drug Amnesty Program, Rathke was given an opportunity to voluntarily surrender any contraband she might have on her person before formally entering the jail.
Deputy Barrow was assigned the task of escorting Rathke into the jail and supervising her booking process. During the required pat-down search, Deputy Barrow observed Rathke behaving evasively and attempting to position her body in a way which concealed her right arm.
Deputy Barrow noticed Rathke was hiding something in her right hand as Rathke attempted to place the unknown object into her mouth.
Recognizing the immediate danger, Deputy Barrow acted swiftly, restraining Rathke to prevent her from ingesting the item. The item was identified as a plastic bag containing an unknown substance.
The concealed baggie contained 2.64 grams of methamphetamine.
Rathke was charged with Introduction of Contraband and Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance.
“As we enter the New Year, I want to make it absolutely clear: if you bring dangerous contraband into my jail, you will be held accountable. Deputy Barrow’s keen eye and quick action ensured the safety of everyone under our care. We remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting this facility and all those within it.” – Sheriff Joseph Roybal