Press Release from the Humboldt County Drug Task Force:

On July 4th, 2023, Officers with the Eureka Police Department conducted a traffic stop on Raymond Allen Payton (age 31), in 1000 block of Broadway in Eureka. After a multi-week investigation, the HCDTF believed Payton was in possession of large quantities of fentanyl pills and several firearms. Payton is a convicted felon and on felony probation with a search clause.  

Raymond Payton

During the traffic stop, EPD Officers found a loaded .38 caliber revolver and a small amount of fentanyl in   Payton’s possession. When EPD Officers checked the serial number on the firearm it was confirmed to be stolen. Due to the narcotics and the stolen firearm located in Payton’s possession, Agents with the HCDTF and Officers with the Eureka Police Department responded to Payton’s residence in the 200 block of Sonoma St., Eureka, to conduct a probation search. 
 
During a search of Payton’s residence Agents located 600 fentanyl “Perc 30” pills, over a 1/4 ounce of fentanyl powder, digital scales, packaging materials, and a non-serialized .40 caliber handgun.
 
Payton was arrested and transported to the Humboldt County Jail where he was booked for the following charges:

• 11370.1(A) Possession of a controlled substance while armed with a loaded firearm
• 29800(A)(1) PC Felon in possession of a firearm
• 25850(A) PC Unlawful possession of firearm on person/vehicle
• 25400 (A)(1) PC Unlawful possession of concealed handgun on person/vehicle
• 11351 HS Possession of narcotics for the purpose of sales       

Anyone with information related to this investigation or other narcotics related crimes are encouraged to call the Humboldt County Drug Task Force at 707-267-9976.