OPNET bust leads to meth charges

Published 9:17 am Thursday, March 20, 2014

by Sequim Gazette staff

Darren J. Samples, 44, of Port Angeles, is charged with selling methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school zone, a Class B felony.

Detectives with the Olympic Peninsula Narcotics Enforcement Team said a confidential informant purchased methamphetamine from Samples three times in August and September 2011.

The sales took place at Samples’ Liberty Street apartment in Port Angeles, according to court documents.

A Jan. 5 search of the residence by OPNET detectives yielded 70 grams of marijuana and 0.2 grams of methamphetamine, detectives said.

Samples told detectives he has used and sold methamphetamine for about 20 years. Detectives said Samples was aware his residence was within 1,000 feet of a school zone because his children catch the bus for school there.

Samples is charged with possession of more than 40 grams of marijuana, possession of methamphetamine, both Class C felonies, and three counts of delivery of a controlled substance, methamphetamine.

He was released from custody on his own recognizance Jan. 6. Samples pleaded not guilty as charged in Clallam County Superior Court Jan. 13 and a trial is set for March 26.