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RIO RANCHO — A Rio Rancho man is facing felony drug charges and more after being pulled over for not having a license plate April 11.
Jarrod Kirtley, 41, was arrested April 17 as the result of an arrest warrant for two counts trafficking a controlled substance, four counts possession of a controlled substance, two counts of receipt, transportation or possession of a firearm, improper display of registration plate and possession of drug paraphernalia.
According to a statement of probable cause, Kirtley was driving with two other passengers in the car when officers pulled him over on Southern Boulevard near 38th Street. An officer noticed several items that indicated illegal drugs were present in the care, including burnt straws and foil.
With a K9 and a search warrant, police found a fully loaded handgun, a “kimber” magazine, 135 pills believed to be fentanyl, heroin and meth in the care. In the trunk, they also found another gun, 70 grams of heroin, loose ammunition and a package with small, clear plastic baggies.
Kirtley came back as a confirmed felon. One of the passengers, Marina Diaz, had warrants for her arrest as well and was believed to be the owner of a purse where some of the drugs were found.
Kirtley could face more than 15 years in prison if he is convicted.
