Atascadero Police Execute Search Warrants in Narcotics Investigation, Arrest Three Suspects
ATASCADERO, CA — “On March 5, 2025, the Atascadero Police Department, in collaboration with the Paso Robles Police Department and the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, executed three search warrants as part of a six-month investigation into the sale of illegal narcotics. The warrants were served at two residences associated with the suspects and at a local business where the suspects are employed. This case remains under investigation.
The search warrants were served at the following locations:
• Outlaws Bar and Casino, 9850 El Camino Real, Atascadero
• The 5500 block of Traffic Way, Atascadero
• The 700 block of Creston Road, Paso Robles
As a result of the searches, law enforcement officers seized 13.8 ounces of cocaine and over $28,000 in cash.
Three individuals were arrested in connection with the investigation:
• Elias Contreras, 29, of Paso Robles, was arrested for:
o Possession of a controlled substance for sale (11351 H&S)
o Sales and transportation of a controlled substance (11352(a) H&S)
o Criminal conspiracy (182 PC)
Mr. Contreras was booked into the San Luis Obispo County Jail, with bail set at $250,000.
• Justin Hall, 31, of Atascadero, was arrested for:
o Possession of a controlled substance for sale (11351 H&S)
o Sales and transportation of a controlled substance (11352(a) H&S)
o Criminal conspiracy (182 PC)
Mr. Hall was booked into the San Luis Obispo County Jail, with bail set at $250,000.
• Chelsea Deperna, 42, of Atascadero, was arrested for:
o Possession of a controlled substance with two prior convictions (11395(b)(1) H&S)
Ms. Deperna was booked into the San Luis Obispo County Jail, with bail set at $20,000.
The Atascadero Police Department’s Special Enforcement Team (SET), which led this investigation, continues to demonstrate its value as a dedicated resource in targeting illegal drug activities. The department remains committed to ensuring the community’s safety through proactive enforcement efforts and strong partnerships with local and state agencies.”
