Serving Whitman County since 1877
Serving Whitman County since 1877
Charged with possession of drugs & explosive materials
COLFAX — Two people were arrested on multiple charges following a high-speed pursuit through Whitman County that ended with the discovery of drugs, weapons and explosive materials in the suspect’s vehicle, according to the Washington State Patrol.
Angel Figeroa Cartagena, 36, homeless, is charged with driving under the influence, attempting to elude a police vehicle, possession of controlled substances including methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl; unlawful possession of a firearm in the second degree, possession of an explosive device and third-degree possession of stolen property.
Rosemary Star Wilson Freelove, 32, of Tacoma, is charged with possession of controlled substances, including methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl and possession of an explosive device.
According to court documents, Trooper Connor Hoeft reported that on Sunday, Nov. 24, while conducting routine patrol westbound on State Route 26 near milepost 129, he observed a gray Toyota Prius traveling eastbound at 93 mph in a 55-mph zone. Upon activating his emergency lights, the vehicle failed to stop and accelerated, passing another vehicle in a no-passing zone and entering oncoming traffic while navigating a corner.
Court records show that the pursuit continued for several miles, with the vehicle entering Colfax and running a stop sign at the intersection of SR 26 and SR 195. The driver, identified as Cartagena, allegedly passed multiple vehicles in no-passing zones before pulling over near milepost 42 on SR 195.
Upon stopping, Figueroa exited the vehicle with his hands raised and lay down on the ground. Troopers Hoeft and Lt. Caputi conducted a felony stop and arrested Figueroa without further incident.
During the arrest, Figueroa exhibited signs of drug impairment, including bloodshot eyes, jittery movements and an inability to focus. He claimed his passenger was experiencing a drug overdose, which he said prompted his erratic driving.
A search of the vehicle, authorized by a warrant, uncovered drug paraphernalia, multiple baggies containing suspected white powder and crystal substances and tinfoil with burn marks. Officers also found identification cards belonging to three other individuals, a loaded pistol, lock-picking tools and a homemade explosive device. The Spokane Regional Bomb Squad confirmed the device was functional and rendered it safe.
The passenger, Freelove, received medical attention at the scene and her condition was not immediately available.
He was booked into the Whitman County Jail and is held on a $100,000 Bond or $10,000 cash bail through Whitman County Superior Court.
Olivia Harnack is a Journalist at the Whitman County Gazette. Olivia is enrolled at University of Idaho and is majoring in digital film studies. She serves in the United States Army National Guard and is proud to serve Whitman County.
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