Atascadero Police Department Executes Search Warrants in Drug Sales Investigation

On March 5, 2025, the Atascadero Police Department, in collaboration with the Paso Robles Police Department and the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, executed three search warrants as part of a six-month investigation into the sale of illegal narcotics. The warrants were served at two residences associated with the suspects and at a local business where the suspects are employed. This case remains under investigation.

The search warrants were served at the following locations:

• Outlaws Bar and Casino, 9850 El Camino Real, Atascadero

• The 5500 block of Traffic Way, Atascadero

• The 700 block of Creston Road, Paso Robles

As a result of the searches, law enforcement officers seized 13.8 ounces of cocaine and over $28,000 in cash.

Three individuals were arrested in connection with the investigation:

• Elias Contreras, 29, of Paso Robles, was arrested for:
  • Possession of a controlled substance for sale (11351 H&S)
  • Sales and transportation of a controlled substance (11352(a) H&S)
  • Criminal conspiracy (182 PC)
    Mr. Contreras was booked into the San Luis Obispo County Jail, with bail set at $250,000.
• Justin Hall, 31, of Atascadero, was arrested for:
  • Possession of a controlled substance for sale (11351 H&S)
  • Sales and transportation of a controlled substance (11352(a) H&S)
  • Criminal conspiracy (182 PC)
    Mr. Hall was booked into the San Luis Obispo County Jail, with bail set at $250,000.
• Chelsea Deperna, 42, of Atascadero, was arrested for:
  • Possession of a controlled substance with two prior convictions (11395(b)(1) H&S)
    Ms. Deperna was booked into the San Luis Obispo County Jail, with bail set at $20,000.

The Atascadero Police Department's Special Enforcement Team (SET), which led this investigation, continues to demonstrate its value as a dedicated resource in targeting illegal drug activities. The department remains committed to ensuring the community's safety through proactive enforcement efforts and strong partnerships with local and state agencies.