Overdose death sparks deeper probe
AIRWAY HEIGHTS – Police arrested a man on the morning of Jan. 22 at his home on 591 S. Easy St.
Leonard E. Higgins, 74, faces charges for maintaining a home where illegal drugs were used and sold, a felony under Washington law.
Police Chief Brad Richmond confirmed the arrest was part of an ongoing investigation into drug activity at the property.
The case began in May of 2024 when a resident, David M. Murdock, informed Officer Baker that fentanyl and methamphetamine were being sold and used at the home. Murdock described it as a “last resort” for drug users to obtain substances.
Murdock later died from a suspected overdose in June 2024, which led to further police investigations and several arrests, including Higgins’.
Court records show that Higgins admitted to purchasing fentanyl pills in bulk and allowing others to use drugs at his home. While he denied selling drugs, he admitted to sharing and trading them with others. Higgins was previously warned about the legal consequences of allowing drug activity on his property.
Higgins was transported and booked into Spokane County Jail on Wednesday, where he is being held on a $5,000 bond.
“We will continue to keep our community updated as this investigation progresses,” said Richmond. “I want to extend my gratitude to our dedicated patrol officers, detectives, and Spokane County Prosecutors for their diligent efforts in ensuring the safety of our community.”
Additional arrests were made during a search of the property, which included the residence and a camper. Police are continuing their investigation and urge anyone with relevant information to come forward.
Clare is an Eastern Washington University graduate and a reporter at Free Press Publishing.
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