COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Authorities in Colorado Springs arrested suspects in connection to a fentanyl overdose death investigation dating back to 2022. Hailee Helton and Thomas Galiano III were taken into custody on Thursday, following a joint investigation by law enforcement agencies in El Paso and Pueblo counties.
The pair had been on the run since federal arrest warrants were issued in August 2023, after being identified as suspects in multiple fentanyl overdose deaths. They were also featured in Pikes Peak’s Most Wanted list, as they had eluded law enforcement for a significant period of time.
On Thursday, detectives received crucial information regarding the whereabouts of the suspects. When law enforcement officers arrived at the residence on South 18th Street, the suspects attempted to flee on foot, prompting a brief pursuit before they were apprehended.
Following their arrest, Helton and Galiano were booked into the El Paso County jail. While no further details about Helton were available, jail records indicated that Galiano was being held on no bond.
The arrests come after a lengthy investigation into fentanyl-related overdose deaths, underscoring the gravity of the issue. The authorities’ swift action to apprehend the suspects reflects the commitment to holding accountable those who contribute to the distribution of dangerous substances.
As of the last update, both Helton and Galiano were in custody, facing charges related to the unlawful distribution of fentanyl resulting in death in El Paso and Pueblo counties. This case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences associated with the distribution and use of illicit substances.