Deputies find “rainbow fentanyl pills” in Yuma

Three locals behind bars: the pills are meant to look like candy

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – The Yuma County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) announced that the Yuma County Narcotics Task Force (YCNTF) discovered fentanyl pills, methamphetamine and paraphernalia at a Yuma residence.

On Oct. 20, 2022 at approximately 6:31 a.m., the YCNTF responded to a narcotics search warrant at a residence in the 1800 block of Walnut Avenue, YCSO said.

During the search, deputies found 810 counterfeit M30 pills containing Fentanyl, valued at $6,480.

Also found was approximately 10.3 grams of methamphetamine with a street value of $206, $2,080 in U.S. currency and raw materials, according to YCSO.

YCSO also noted that the residence is within 450 feet of a public school.

The three suspects were arrested and booked into the Yuma County Detention Center YCSO.

Johnny Roebuck Jr., a 63-year-old man, was arrested and booked for drug possession.

Ricky Smith, 39, was arrested and booked on charges of drug for sale, drug possession, drug delivery and importation, drug paraphernalia possession and drug sale in a drug free zone.

Mercedes Ruiz, a 37-year-old male, was arrested and booked for possession of dangerous drugs for sale, possession of drugs for sale, possession of drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia and sale of drugs in a drug free zone.

YCSO says these fake “kits” or “rainbow” pills can contain lethal doses of compressed fentanyl for people of all ages.

If you or someone sees any suspected drug activity, call (928) 783-4427 or visit the YCSO website here. yumacountysheriff.org for providing anonymous advice.