Albuquerque Police Narcotics Detectives and Homeland Security Agents Intercept Large Shipment of Illegal Drugs
APD K-9 "Angel"
By Officer Tasia Martinez
Stephen Acton, 54, was arrested Monday evening after flying a plane into Albuquerque that was loaded with marijuana.
APD Northwest Impact, APD Central Narcotics K-9 Detectives and Homeland Security Agents responded to a call at the Double Eagle Airport, 7401 Paseo del Volcan NW, regarding a tip that there was an incoming flight with a quantity of narcotics on board.
When the suspect aircraft landed, the pilot, Stephen Acton, was found to be without a valid license or medical card. Acton also had an expired plane registration and a fraudulent flight plan. K-9 detective D. Irwin deployed his K-9 "Angel" who indicated on the aircraft. A subsequent search revealed 41 pounds of high grade marijuana with an estimated street value of more than $780,000.
The suspect's single engine Cessna 172E was seized as a result of the operation. Acton is being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center on a $5,000 bond. He is facing felony charges including distribution of a controlled substance. APD Detective D. Irwin is continuing the investigation with Homeland Security.
