Central Oregon Investigation Leads to Seizure of Meth, Firearm, and Kidnapping Charges
A multi-agency investigation in Central Oregon has resulted in the seizure of over two pounds of suspected methamphetamine and a firearm. The initial drug investigation, conducted by the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team and the Redmond Police Department Street Crimes Unit, led to the arrest of Jeffrey Patton, 51, and Thomas Dopp, 57, both Redmond residents, on firearm, drug possession, and delivery charges. As the investigation progressed, CODE identified Efram Palafox, a 41-year-old Bend resident, as an associate. Information gathered about Palafox subsequently expanded the case into a kidnapping and assault investigation, prompting the activation of the Central Oregon Major Incident Team (MIT) and CERT. Palafox was apprehended in Bend and found in possession of a substantial amount of methamphetamine and U.S. currency. A search warrant executed at Palafox’s residence uncovered additional charges for cocaine possession and seven counts of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Later, a... 
