Altoona Resident Arrested on Drug and Conspiracy to Commit Murder Charges

On Friday, the Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Narcotics Task Force (CWNTF), the Wahkiakum County Sheriff's Office and the Longview Street Crimes Unit arrested Wahkiakum County resident Sam Valdez for conspiracy to commit murder, delivery of a controlled substance, and possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver.

According to the sheriff's office, the CWNTF had been investigating Valdez for manufacturing hash oil, otherwise known as "honey oil," when they discovered he was plotting to hire someone to murder his ex-wife. It was also discovered that Valdez had a "hit list" that included Superior Court Judge Mike Sullivan and District Court Judge Bill Faubion, the sheriff's office said in a news release.

During the search at Valdez residence, officers discovered 17.6 pounds of THC extract worth an estimated street value of $140,000, 1/2 pound of green unprocessed marijuana, eight firearms, 30 seal bomb explosives, and 1000 rounds of ammunition.

Valdez is currently being held on No Bail at this time. Law enforcement is urging those with any information on this case to contact the Wahkiakum County Sheriff's Office at 360-795-3242.