A pastor in Arlington, Washington, was arrested for allegedly selling drugs, including fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine, according to reports.
57-year-old Steve Parker is facing seven felony charges, including one for possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, one for conspiracy to deliver a controlled substance, one for money laundering, and another for maintaining a vehicle or building for drug trafficking.
“Steve Parker bragged about being a good drug dealer, saying he was good at business,” the charging document read.
According to police, Parker lived a double life: one as a pastor caring for at least 14 sexual offenders who required assistance remaining off the streets at their Arlington home with his wife, while the other was dealing drugs at a home in Tulalip with his girlfriend. His legal family reportedly wasn’t aware of his alleged drug activities.
Additionally, the Arlongton local had at least once served as a guest pastor at the Sisco Heights Community Church, and worked as the director of Omni-Manna Service, an organization helping convicts and addicts find work and low-cost housing.
“Omni Mana helps people who have had substance abuse or mental health issues find employment,” an online resource to connect people with medical help stated. “Helps those with felonies as well.”
The investigation into Parker’s drug dealing began when a source reportedly tipped off the Skagit County Interlocal Drug Enforcement Unit to the allegedly illicit activities of the pastor late last year.
After obtaining a search warrant for Parker’s 2002 Subaru on Jan. 19, police found 2.7 pounds of meth, more than 2,000 fake pills allegedly containing fentanyl, another ounce of fentanyl, and cocaine. They also discovered scales and other equipment often used for drug distribution.
In a police interview, the pastor admitted to having the drugs and acknowledged how toxic fentanyl is given the country’s drug crisis. He also told police he resupplies his drugs with multiple suppliers three or four times per week.
Parker is charged with possession of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine, as well as money laundering, among other charges. He is currently detained at the Skagit County Jail with bail set at $750,000, and is due in court on Feb. 2.
