Two Face Drug Charges After Traffic Stop

(GERING, Neb.) — Two Thornton, Colorado, residents are facing felony drug charges following an August traffic stop near Avenue I.

According to police affidavits, a Scottsbluff Police officer pulled over a 2019 black Kia Sorento driven by Bruce Lee, 34, near 730 Avenue I on Aug. 22 after the vehicle failed to signal before turning. Desiree Faith Colleado, 30, was identified as the passenger.

During a pat-down search of Lee, officers located a methamphetamine pipe in his pants pocket. A subsequent search of the vehicle reportedly yielded a bag beneath the passenger seat containing approximately 38.7 grams of methamphetamine, a digital scale and a baggie with residue.

Officers also located 28 grams of marijuana and 0.6 grams of methamphetamine inside Colleado’s purse. Both individuals were arrested.

Bruce Lee’s Court Proceedings

Charges:

• Possession of methamphetamine (28-139 grams) — Class IC felony
• Failure to affix drug tax stamp — Class IV felony
• Possession or use of drug paraphernalia — infraction

During an arraignment hearing Friday in Scotts Bluff County District Court, Judge Andrea Miller presiding, Lee waived the waiting period and entered not guilty pleas to all counts.

Prosecutor Paul Payne appeared on behalf of the state, and defense attorney Brent Hansen was appointed to represent Lee. Bond was continued as previously set.

A pretrial conference is scheduled for December 9, 2026, with a jury trial set for January 4, 2027.

Desiree Colleado’s Court Proceedings

Charges:

• Possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine) — Class IV felony
• Possession of marijuana (1 ounce or less, first offense) — infraction

Appearing in court Friday before Judge Miller, Colleado also waived the waiting period and entered not guilty pleas.

Prosecutor Lyman appeared on behalf of the state, and defense attorney Madelung was appointed to represent Colleado. Bond was maintained at $11,000 with a 10% deposit allowed.

A pretrial conference is scheduled for January 20, 2027, with a jury trial term beginning February 1, 2027.

All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.