Bend, Oregon – A Central Oregon drug-trafficking investigation led to the arrest of a Bend woman Wednesday night after officers pulled her over on Highway 26 and uncovered a significant haul of fentanyl, methamphetamine and other narcotics. Detectives say the traffic stop halted an active pipeline of drugs moving from Portland into the region.
Traffic Stop Leads to Major Drug Seizure
Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) officials reported that Sunshine Wright, 48, was stopped by deputies near Cherry Lane in Jefferson County. According to Lt. Mike Landolt, the stop was initiated because of traffic violations and ongoing intelligence suggesting the vehicle was being used to transport illegal drugs.
During the stop, a police K9 alerted officers to the presence of narcotics inside the vehicle. That alert prompted CODE detectives to request a search warrant. Once granted, officers began a detailed search of the vehicle, uncovering multiple types of drugs packaged for distribution.
What Investigators Found Inside the Vehicle
Detectives say the search uncovered a combined 170 grams of illegal drugs, including:
- 80 grams of fentanyl
- 80 grams of methamphetamine
- Over 10 grams of cocaine
- Additional drug-distribution paraphernalia
Investigators believe the drugs were being transported directly from Portland to Central Oregon for sale.
Landolt said the seizure highlights the continued efforts of CODE to intercept drug trafficking routes before they reach residential communities. He noted that Highway 26 has become a recurring corridor for drug movement into rural parts of Jefferson and Deschutes counties.
Charges Filed Following the Arrest
Following her arrest, Wright was booked into the Jefferson County Jail. Prosecutors have formally charged her with four felony counts tied to the manufacture, delivery and possession of fentanyl and methamphetamine.
Her arraignment is scheduled for November 28, where prosecutors are expected to outline the full scope of evidence gathered in the case. Officials said additional charges could be considered as the investigation continues.
Why Fentanyl Trafficking Cases Remain a Priority
Law enforcement agencies across Oregon continue to emphasize the danger of fentanyl distribution, especially given its role in a rising number of overdose deaths. Even small amounts of illegally manufactured fentanyl can be lethal, making these trafficking routes a top priority for multi-agency task forces like CODE.
Detectives say seizures like Wednesday’s prevent large quantities of dangerous substances from reaching neighborhoods, schools and homeless communities throughout Central Oregon.
Public Safety Officials Urge Community Awareness
Investigators encourage residents to report any suspicious drug-related activity, especially along known transit routes such as Highway 26.
“Every significant seizure like this prevents potentially hundreds of deadly doses from reaching the community,” Lt. Landolt said during Thursday’s briefing.
Officials added that community tips often play a critical role in identifying repeat trafficking patterns and helping detectives track movement between major metro areas and rural counties.
Conclusion
The arrest marks another major interception in the region’s ongoing fight against fentanyl distribution. With Wright now facing multiple felony charges, Jefferson County prosecutors say the case reflects the serious approach Oregon law enforcement continues to take in addressing drug trafficking networks.
If you live in Central Oregon, have you noticed increased police activity or drug-related concerns in your area? Share your experiences in the comments below.
