EXCLUSIVE: Drug Fugitives On The Run
KALKASKA CO. -- It was a major drug bust in Kalkaska County, but now seven years later the main suspects are still on the run and detectives looking for them want your help.
The Kalkaska County Prosecutor charged 52-year old Joseph Jaruzel and Pamela O’Toole with three drug felonies. In January 2003, authorities along with the Traverse Narcotics Team raided their home on Plum Valley Road in Northern Mancelona. They seized large amounts of cocaine, morphine, marijuana, methadone wafers, guns, and cash.
Traverse Narcotics Team, Detective Lieutenant Kipp Belcher says, “The suspect, Joseph Jaruzel, had lunged for one of the guns when the tactical team came into the home.”
At the time no arrest was made because there were several people in the home during the raid. Authorities weren’t sure who the drugs belonged to. Suspects were interviewed that night, but by the time the Kalkaska Prosecutor reviewed the case and issued arrest warrants, Jaruzel and O’Toole were gone.
Detective Lieutenant Belcher says “It’s been challenging. We utilized a number of resources, both in human resources and in data, but they’ve stayed off the radar.”
While Belcher believes the fugitives may have fled to another country like Canada or Mexico, he still wants residents to be on the look out. The couple has friends and family still living in all around Northern Michigan.
Belcher says “They were involved in some serious criminal drug activity that affected a number of people in community. They shouldn’t be permitted to have a pass in this matter.”
If you know their whereabouts call your local police or (231)-922-0993, you could receive a cash reward.
