Prelim set in drug case involving former political candidate

MONTROSE — A former political candidate rounded up after a multi-agency drug investigation was hit with 13 felony charges Thursday.

David Williams was arrested in June by the Seventh Judicial District Meth/Drug Task Force, which was working in conjunction with several other area law enforcement agencies.

Four others, Raul Blas-Solano and Bertha Blas-Solano, and Juan Ruezgo-Andrade and Hector Ruezgo-Andrade, all of Ouray, were also arrested on drug allegations.

Williams was formally charged with three counts of distribution of a controlled substance, possession of a schedule II controlled substance, three counts of possession of a controlled substance, three counts of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, two counts of conspiracy to distribute or manufacture a controlled substance, and as a special offender-within 1,000 feet of a school.

According to District Attorney Myrl Serra, Williams once ran for the state legislature in the 1980s. He was defeated by Steve Acquafresca.

Williams’ attorney argued Thursday for bond reduction, saying the $750,000 bail was oppressive, but Serra said the bond was appropriate because of the seriousness of the allegations. He also said Williams was already on probation for two misdemeanor cases.

The bond request was denied. Williams was set for preliminary hearing 2:30 p.m. July 20.

The Blas-Solanos and Ruezgo-Andrades will be advised of formal charges in Ouray on July 9, according to the court there.