Investigation of Illegal Handgun Sale Leads to Arrest of Suspected Drug Dealer
Photo: confiscated from Runkle
RODEO — Authorities investigating an illegal handgun sale arrested a suspected drug dealer inside his home. His arrest resulted from an inquiry involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
The suspect arrested is a Rodeo resident, 32-year-old James Runkle. He was taken into custody on August 16. He was detained without incident as investigators searched his California Street residence.
Investigators recovered a semi-automatic 9 mm pistol and a large quantity of illicit drugs from inside his home. Additional evidence recovered included a large amount of cash in various denominations.
Authorities seized approximately two pounds of methamphetamine and three pounds of cannabis. An unspecified amount of suspected heroin was also found.
Runkle was booked at the Martinez Detention Facility, where he remains housed. He faces four charges for possession of drugs for sale, including possession of control substances while armed. He also faces one charge for child cruelty/endangerment.
Runkle was targeted for investigation earlier this month. It was conducted under the auspices of the Contra Costa County Anti-Violence Support Effort, known as CASE.
This investigatory team specializes in violent crimes related to illegal firearms in Contra Costa County. Such investigations also target bigtime drug dealers.
CASE is a collaboration between the county sheriff’s office, California Department of Justice and California Highway Patrol. State and local agencies also work closely with the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
