Deputies seek drug suspect

A man who fled from a police sting operation is being sought by local authorities. Obed Hernandez Orduna, 26, of 2136 Glade Valley Rd. is wanted by the Alleghany Sheriff's Office for numerous drug charges stemming from an April 5 drug operation.

Sheriff David Edwards said he and several deputies, along with the Sparta Police Department, State Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Customs officers were on hand for a joint operation on Macedonia Church Road April 5.

According to Investigator Tim Duncan, the department received information about drug transactions at the location. "We received information that drug transactions were taking place on Macedonia Church Road behind a mobile home," said Duncan. "We also received specific information about a large drug deal set to go down on April 5."

Meanwhile, Deputy Steve Carrier stated that the department set up surveilance of the area and moved in when the suspects were spotted.

"When they were all gathered around the vehicle engaged in a transaction, we moved in to make the arrest," said Carrier. However, Orduna fled on foot into the woods and was able to elude authorities, he said. Two other suspects were unable to escape the scene, but their names are not being released pending further investigation.

Orduna is wanted for trafficking cocaine, possession with intent to sell and deliver cocaine, selling cocaine and resisting an officer. Other charges may be pending, Carrier noted.

Sheriff Edwards said that he and other members of the task force involved in the incident seized eight ounces of cocaine, $1,500 cash and a 1993 Toyota Corolla at the scene.

Edwards said his department also sought search warrants for the residence of Orduna on Glade Valley Road that same night. Upon searching the home, deputies seized about $7,000 in cash, two pounds and six-and-a-half ounces of marijuana and about two ounces of cocaine.

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