Three Arrested in OPNET Drug Bust at Sequim Casino

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Three people have been arrested and jailed after a two-day drug investigation by the Olympic Peninsula Narcotics Enforcement Team (OPNET) that uncovered a major narcotics operation linked to Kitsap County. The investigation led to the seizure of over 260 grams of suspected fentanyl, 500 grams of suspected methamphetamine, smaller amounts of cocaine, multiple firearms, and nearly $19,000 in cash.

Why it matters

This bust highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat the opioid crisis and disrupt major drug trafficking operations in the region. The seizure of firearms also raises concerns about the intersection of drug crimes and gun violence.

The details

The investigation began on March 11th and initially led to the arrests of Clallam County residents Patrick Nelson and Johnny Watts. The following day, detectives developed information that additional suspects connected to the operation were staying at the 7 Cedars Casino in Sequim. Investigators then arrested 35-year-old Dylan Marsh-Backs of Kitsap County, who was found with nearly 200 grams of fentanyl packaged for sale, along with a scale, packaging materials, and loaded pistol magazines. A search of his vehicle turned up a .45 caliber handgun. Authorities also arrested 43-year-old Jonathan Karns of Kitsap County, who was found with more fentanyl, a scale with residue, drug sales records, a 9-millimeter pistol, and a shotgun. A third person, 41-year-old Lindsey Heidner of the Key Peninsula, was arrested for unlawfully carrying a concealed firearm.

• The investigation began on March 11th.
• The additional arrests at the 7 Cedars Casino in Sequim occurred the following day, on March 12th.

What’s next

Marsh-Backs, Karns, and Watts remain jailed on $250,000 bail. The investigation involved multiple local agencies and assistance from 7 Cedars Casino staff.