Press release from the Humboldt County Drug Task Force:

Nickols. Photos: DTF.

On August 4th, 2024, Humboldt County Drug Task Force (HCDTF) Agents served a search warrant on William Andrew Nickols (34 years old from Hoopa). During the months of July and August, the HCDTF received information that Nickols was traveling to Oakland and purchasing large quantities of narcotics for the purpose of sales, specifically in the Hoopa Valley.

HCDTF Agents observed Nickols travel from Humboldt County to Oakland, California. Upon Nickols’ return to Humboldt County, Agents conducted a traffic stop on his vehicle as he entered the city of Fortuna.

Nickols was detained without incident and his vehicle was searched. Agents located approximately 3 ounces of fentanyl (street value of over $9,000) concealed in a hollowed-out headrest inside of Nickols vehicle.

William Nickols was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was booked on the following charges:

• 11351 HS Possession of narcotics for the purpose of sales
• 11352(a) HS Transportation of narcotics for the purpose of sales
• 11352(b) HS Transportation of narcotics (noncontiguous counties)

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