Probationer Arrested After Allegedly Flushing Meth Pipes

A probationer who allegedly flushed evidence down his toilet when paid a visit by Murrieta police for a compliance check was returned to custody Wednesday.

Russell James Datuin Uson, 34, was arrested at about 1:45 p.m Wednesday when Murrieta police went to his address in the 26000 block of Palm Tree Lane to conduct the check, according to Murrieta police Sgt. Jay Froboese.

Uson was on probation for previous drug offenses, Froboese said.

"As officers knocked and rang the door bell, (Uson) walked up to the door and locked it," the sergeant said.

When officers advised Uson they were there to conduct the check, Froboese said he ran toward to his bedroom, retrieved an unknown object and ran into the bathroom.

"(The officer) yelled at (Uson) to stop and come to the door."

That's when a woman opened the front door and invited officers in. Uson then ran in the room out of breath, Froboese said.

Officers heard water running in the toilet, and said Uson eventually admitted to flushing methamphetamine pipes down the toilet, Froboese said.

Officers allegedly found hypodermic needles and syringes next to five clear plastic baggies in Uson's bedroom—one with residue still inside it, Froboese said.

"(Uson) displayed the objective symptoms of being under the influence of a Central Nervous System stimulant," Froboese said.

Uson was arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled substance, being under the influence of a controlled substance and probation violation—all felonies. He was also arrested on suspicion of delaying a peace officer in his official duties—a misdemeanor.

Uson was booked at Southwest Detention Center on suspicion of the arrest charges, and was being held on $25,000 bail. He was due in court Friday.

"Murrieta patrol officers will continue conducting probation and parole compliance checks indefinitely throughout the city as time permits," Froboese said.

"This pro-active, officer-initiated activity by Murrieta officers helps reduce crime and return to custody those probationers and parolees who fail to comply with the terms of their release."