Teen Cocaine Dealer Caught Red-Handed at Circle K: Police Report

Maricopa Police apprehended a known drug dealer on Monday due to issues related to vehicle registration and insurance. The incident unfolded around 10 a.m. when officers stopped a silver 2000 Mercury Grand Marquis, finding its registration suspended for lack of insurance.

The vehicle was parked at a Circle K on Honeycutt Road, where police discovered 30-year-old Cesar Castellanos behind the wheel, accompanied by passengers Devon Duke and 19-year-old Nathan Rojas. Officers noted that all three individuals appeared nervous, exhibiting visible signs of distress and avoiding eye contact.

A search of the vehicle yielded no illegal substances, but authorities conducted a consensual search of Rojas. They recovered a large ziplock bag from his pocket, which contained several empty small ziplock bags along with three additional bags holding approximately 2½ grams of cocaine.

During questioning, Castellanos acknowledged Rojas’s reputation as a drug dealer and admitted to previously transporting him for drug-related activities. Police documented evidence of these activities found on Castellanos’ cell phone, leading to the confiscation of both his and Rojas’ devices as evidence.

Rojas was subsequently arrested and booked into the Pinal County jail. He faces serious charges, including possession of dangerous drugs for sale, possession of dangerous drugs, and possession of drug paraphernalia. If convicted in Maricopa Justice Court, he could serve a minimum of seven years in prison.