October 26, 2006
DOCUMENT: Crime
Hook Me Up, Elmo
DEA: Drug ring transported meth inside Sesame Street character
OCTOBER 26--A Colorado drug operation hid large quantities of methamphetamine inside Elmo dolls, according to federal investigators who yesterday announced the indictment of 21 alleged members of the ring.
During a year-long probe, Drug Enforcement Administration agents seized an Elmo doll (seen in this DEA evidence photo) in Barstow, California that was stuffed with four pounds of methamphetamine. When investigators opened up the plush doll's skull, they discovered the drug stash inside wrapped in plastic (as seen in this evidence pic).
While Elmo has never previously been linked to narcotics distribution or use, the Sesame Street character appears to have no teeth, which frequently is seen in heavy meth users. (2 pages)
