Everett man identified as ringleader in drug trafficking network, another successful operation for Whatcom County deputies

Seattle, Washington – Five people connected to a sophisticated drug distribution network functioning in the North Sound region have been apprehended by authorities in Whatcom County. Targeting the allegedly ringleader, 37-year-old Mikel Escandon-Tibinen from Everett, the arrests resulted from a investigation conducted by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office.

Starting in May 2024, the investigation first concentrated on 34-year-old Austin Grimme of Bellingham, suspected of both gun and drug trafficking. A turning point in the case came when Grimme visited friends and authorities seized three ounces of suspected fentanyl-laced powder following a traffic stop. Additional investigation at Grimme’s house turned up a 3D printer used for creating “ghost guns,” or automatic weapons. Grimme faces charges including possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, unlawful possession of firearms, and manufacturing undetectable firearms.

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Donnell Tanksley of Whatcom County Sheriff underlined the risks these untraceable firearms, especially to young people. Further stressing the link between such weapons and the increase in young violence, he added the guns lack serial numbers, thereby posing great risk to the society.

Detectives discovered a broader distribution ring as the investigation went forward, identifying Escandon-Tibillin as the organizer. Operating like a “dispatcher service,” this network routinely moved drugs utilizing local stash homes. Law enforcement’s June and July controlled transactions under surveillance revealed Escandon-Tibillin’s involvement as well as two other suspects: Washington Ruiz Bomboza, 22, and Edwin Vite Delgado, 26.

Courtesy of Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office

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Escandon-Tibillin and Bomboza were apprehended in a Bellingham parking lot during the operation. Charges against them include delivery of a controlled substance, leading organized crime, and money laundering.

Additional investigation turned law enforcement to two Everett residences connected to the accused. The raids revealed 24 pounds of cocaine or fentanyl-laced powder, 32 pounds of fentanyl-laced tablets, 12 pounds of methamphetamine, three pounds of heroin, and almost $60,000 in suspected drug money. Delgado and 26-year-old Katerin Arangura-Arangure were arrested during these operations under charges including possession with intent to deliver and money laundering.

Sheriff Tanksley underlined the dedication of municipal and federal authorities in dismantling these risky businesses.

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“Protecting the community, protecting people. This is about people,” said Tanksley as reported by Fox 13. “It was a great operation and we’re not going to stop here.”