GHENT, W.Va. — A citizen of Peru was arrested Sunday in Raleigh County for impersonating a federal agent.
Sheriff’s deputies responded to a call from Ghent, where the suspect had contacted authorities and reportedly said he was with the Drug Enforcement Administration and was at a location where there was cocaine. When officers arrived at the home, they observed a man inside carrying a firearm, walking from to room. He was ordered to drop the weapon, and eventually complied.
The suspect, who later was identifed as Joseph Elera, then stated that he was being chased by members of a drug cartel. Three adult females and one adult male who were inside the house told officers Elera had kicked in the back door and entered the residence, stating he was with the DEA. They also said they had been hired by Winterplace Ski Resort, and were in the United States on a 20-day work VISA from Peru.
Elera was charged with falsely reporting an emergency, impersonating a law enforcement officer, and destruction of property.
No illegal drugs were found at the scene.