A man from Colorado Springs has been sentenced to 23 years in prison after a traffic stop revealed a large drug haul, including fentanyl and methamphetamine.
The incident occurred on July 13, 2023, when Colorado State Patrol officers observed 36-year-old Michael Hemersbach’s Chrysler 300 swerving erratically on I-25 near Castle Rock.
Upon stopping the vehicle, officers noted signs of impairment, including the smell of marijuana, bloodshot eyes, and slow, slurred speech. Hemersbach failed to pull over in a manner consistent with a sober driver.
A K-9 unit alerted officers to drugs in the car, leading to the discovery of meth, cocaine, ketamine, multiple cell phones, and large sums of cash. Additionally, three pounds of meth and nearly a pound of fentanyl pills were found in a backpack.
Hemersbach pleaded guilty to several charges, including possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine, as well as driving while impaired with multiple prior offenses. This conviction marked his third drug distribution offense.
District Attorney John Kellner praised the efforts of law enforcement, emphasizing the continued importance of tackling drug trafficking along I-25. He stated that Hemersbach, a repeat offender, will remain incarcerated for a significant period due to the collaborative efforts of the Colorado State Patrol and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.