DELAND, Fla. — A DeLand man is once again behind bars — and this time, there’s no getting out.
Roger Rutz, already facing narcotics charges from an arrest Thursday night, was re-arrested less than 24 hours later after Volusia County deputies uncovered a staggering drug stash at his apartment. The twist? Rutz bonded out of jail while deputies were still executing the search warrant.
According to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, the initial arrest stemmed from an ongoing investigation into suspected drug activity. But by Friday morning, while Rutz remained in custody, neighbors began reporting unusually heavy traffic to and from his apartment — a red flag for law enforcement.
Deputies acted quickly, securing a search warrant and descending on the DeLand residence. What they found was a veritable narcotics warehouse: fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, crack cocaine, prescription pills, and other illicit substances were recovered from the property. Authorities say the volume and variety of drugs suggest a significant trafficking operation.
As the search unfolded, Rutz was released from jail on bond. But his freedom was short-lived. A deputy stationed near the jail spotted Rutz exiting in a rideshare vehicle and promptly intercepted him. He was taken back into custody without incident.
Now facing a fresh slate of drug trafficking and possession charges, Rutz is being held without bond. The sheriff’s office says the case highlights the importance of community vigilance and swift investigative response.
“This is exactly why we encourage residents to speak up,” said a spokesperson for the department. “Tips from the public helped us uncover a dangerous situation and prevent further harm to the community.”
Rutz’s arrest marks the latest in a series of aggressive drug enforcement actions across Volusia County, as deputies continue to crack down on trafficking networks and street-level distribution. Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be forthcoming.
For now, Rutz’s return to jail sends a clear message: in Volusia County, the door doesn’t stay open for long when drugs are involved.
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