Drugs, Cash, and Hidden Gun Found Near Playground in Grand Island Raid; Two Arrested

GRAND ISLAND - Two individuals were arrested Thursday afternoon following a search warrant at a residence on East 16th Street, according to the Grand Island Police Department.

Officers served the warrant around 12:45 p.m. on April 2 at a home located on E. 16th Street in Grand Island. During the operation, police made contact with Ezequiel Barraza-Anguiano, who authorities say refused to comply with lawful orders and resisted arrest as officers attempted to take him into custody.

Investigators reported that Barraza-Anguiano and Angelina Ayala West were found in possession of what authorities described as a distributable amount of THC products and marijuana. Officers also located cash believed to be tied to drug activity inside the residence.

According to police, the home is situated within 1,000 feet of both a playground and a daycare.

During the search, officers also discovered a firearm concealed in a child’s bedroom. Police noted that Barraza-Anguiano is a convicted felon and legally prohibited from possessing firearms. Authorities allege the weapon was possessed in connection with the felony offenses under investigation.

Barraza-Anguiano faces multiple charges, including possession with intent to distribute near a playground, possession of drug money, tampering with evidence, resisting arrest, obstruction, and firearm-related offenses, as well as a charge of intentional child abuse without injury.

Ayala West was also arrested and faces charges of possession with intent to distribute near a playground and intentional child abuse without injury.

Both individuals were taken into custody following the incident. The case remains under investigation.