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MORGAN — Police in Florida are investigating whether a man arrested in Utah and charged for alleged drug distribution has information regarding the killings of two police officers.
Donald Ray Tartt, 30, of Kissimmee, Florida, was charged in 3rd District Court with drug distribution, a third-degree felony.
On Aug. 26, Tartt was pulled over for speeding. As a Utah Highway Patrol trooper questioned Tartt, he noted in charging documents that, "I felt his story was unrealistic. He was traveling from Florida to Oregon, back to Florida. At times he seemed confused and had a hard time answering some questions."
During a subsequent search of Tartt's car, the trooper found 18 packages of marijuana in the trunk.
"Approximately 10 of the 18 packages were wrapped in a blanket, which were found inside a suitcase. Three packages were discovered in Lego box that was taped shut, and the remaining 5 packages were discovered inside a box for Christmas decor that was taped shut. Each package was wrapped in several layers of vacuum sealed bags and electrical tape," according to a recently unsealed search warrant in 2nd District Court. "Tartt stated he purchased it for $1,000 per pound, and admitted to spending about $15,000."
Troopers looked at Tartt's cellphone and noticed "an incoming text message referencing the homicide of two police officers in Kissimmee, Florida." - Warrant
While continuing the investigation, troopers looked at Tartt's cellphone and noticed "an incoming text message referencing the homicide of two police officers in Kissimmee, Florida," the warrant states. "The text message appeared to have been sent to Tartt by an individual who had specific knowledge of the homicide, and potential suspects and witnesses."
On Aug. 18, two police officers were shot and killed in Kissimmee, about 20 miles south of Orlando.
Tartt's cellphone is now being analyzed by law enforcers looking for any possible information regarding the killings of the two officers.
