COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Two suspects have been arrested in connection with an investigation into multiple fentanyl overdose deaths that began in 2022. Hailee Helton and Thomas Galiano III were taken into custody by the Colorado Springs police on Thursday.
The investigation, which started in August 2022, focused on fentanyl overdose deaths in El Paso County. Helton and Galiano were also identified as suspects in another overdose case in Pueblo County. The complexity of the case led to federal arrest warrants being issued for the unlawful distribution of fentanyl resulting in death in both counties in August 2023.
Both suspects had eluded law enforcement and were featured in Pikes Peaks Most Wanted. However, on Thursday, detectives obtained information on the suspects’ whereabouts, leading to their apprehension. When authorities contacted the residence where the suspects were located on South 18th Street, the pair fled on foot. Multiple units of officers assisted in the capture, and the suspects were taken into custody after a brief foot chase.
As of the latest update, Helton and Galiano were booked into the El Paso County jail. Notably, Galiano was being held on no bond, while no information was available for Helton in jail records. The arrests mark a significant development in the ongoing efforts to combat the distribution of fentanyl and prevent further overdose deaths in the region.
The authorities’ successful apprehension of the suspects underscores the commitment to holding individuals accountable for their involvement in the unlawful distribution of dangerous substances. As the investigation progresses, law enforcement officials will continue to pursue leads and work towards ensuring justice for the victims and their families.