Caldwell, ID – A routine traffic stop in Caldwell turned into a major drug and firearm seizure after officers discovered large quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and multiple loaded guns, authorities said. The incident unfolded on Halloween night, when police across the Treasure Valley were working extended patrols to ensure public safety.
The Incident: Routine Stop Turns Into Drug Discovery
According to the Caldwell Police Department, officers stopped a suspicious vehicle leaving a local area on Friday night. Inside the vehicle were Anthony Gomez, a known gang member on parole for narcotics trafficking, and Stormy Rachel Stephens, who officers said appeared to be under the influence of methamphetamine.
“During the investigation, it was determined Stormy was under the influence of methamphetamine and had a loaded firearm on her person,” police said in a statement. “Anthony was found to be on parole for narcotics trafficking offenses.”
A search of the vehicle quickly escalated the situation. Officers discovered a large quantity of methamphetamine, fentanyl powder, hundreds of fentanyl pills, and another loaded firearm inside.
Authorities later obtained a search warrant for a nearby residence connected to the suspects, leading to the discovery of even more drugs and weapons.
Investigation and Evidence: A Dangerous Cache of Drugs and Weapons
Police said the follow-up search of the residence uncovered significant quantities of controlled substances and paraphernalia. In total, investigators seized:
- 600 fentanyl pills from the residence
- Numerous pieces of drug paraphernalia
- 4 ounces of methamphetamine
- 6.5 grams of powdered fentanyl
- 834 total fentanyl pills
- 4 firearms
Authorities noted that both suspects were taken into custody, and Anthony Gomez was booked on multiple firearms charges. Additional charges are pending against both individuals as the investigation continues.
Community Impact: Fentanyl Crisis Reaches Local Streets
Police emphasized that the seizure represents a significant step toward curbing fentanyl distribution in Idaho. The synthetic opioid, which has become a leading cause of overdose deaths nationwide, continues to devastate communities across the U.S.
Fentanyl’s potency—up to 50 times stronger than heroin—means that even small amounts can be lethal. Law enforcement agencies across the Treasure Valley have increased their enforcement efforts in response to a rising number of overdose incidents linked to counterfeit pills and powdered fentanyl.
“Fentanyl is taking lives of people all across America,” police said. “It’s heartbreaking to realize that the drug is impacting our very own area, too.”
The Caldwell Police Department credited its officers’ vigilance for preventing potentially deadly drugs from reaching local neighborhoods. The department reaffirmed its commitment to keeping Caldwell residents safe through targeted enforcement and ongoing investigations into trafficking networks.
Court Proceedings and Next Steps
As of this week, Anthony Gomez remains in custody and faces multiple firearms and narcotics-related charges, while Stormy Rachel Stephens could face additional charges related to possession and intoxication. Both suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, officials noted.
Authorities said federal partners may join the investigation, given the volume and type of drugs seized. The Caldwell Police Department continues to coordinate with state and federal narcotics task forces to determine whether the case is tied to broader drug trafficking operations in southern Idaho.
Conclusion
The large seizure highlights the persistent threat of fentanyl and methamphetamine across Idaho communities and the critical role of proactive policing. Thanks to swift action from Caldwell officers, hundreds of fentanyl pills and multiple firearms are now off the streets — preventing potential overdoses and violence in the community.
What are your thoughts on this major drug bust and the growing fentanyl crisis? Share your opinions in the comments below.
