U.S. Marshals Arrest Fugitive on Meth Charges After Nine Years on the Run

Albuquerque –

The United States Marshals Service (USMS) Southwest Investigative Fugitive Task Force, through its investigative efforts, has gathered information about the whereabouts of a fugitive who has been on the run for nearly nine years.

Ernest Madrid, 54, had been wanted since 2017 by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in the District of New Mexico on charges of conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and aiding and abetting.

Madrid was located and arrested in Colorado Springs, Colorado, after investigators determined he was working under an alias at a local meatpacking plant.

The U.S. Marshals Service District of New Mexico contacted the District of Colorado to request assistance in locating and apprehending Madrid.

On October 29, 2026, members of the Colorado Violent Offender Task Force located Madrid. Law enforcement officers developed a coordinated apprehension plan and took him into custody without incident.

Following his arrest, Madrid was booked into the El Paso County Jail in Colorado Springs, where he is awaiting extradition to New Mexico.

The apprehension was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Marshals Service Districts of New Mexico and Colorado.

“Nine years on the run, but you cannot outrun the Marshal Service,” said United States Marshal for the District of New Mexico David O. Barnett Jr. “We will continue to work diligently to bring those who harm our New Mexico communities to justice.”

U.S. Marshal Kirk Taylor of the District of Colorado added, “Whether it’s nine days, nine months, or nine years, the U.S. Marshals do not stop. If you’re a fugitive on the run, it’s only a matter of time before we show up for you. I’m proud that our team was able to assist in apprehending this fugitive so he can have his day in court.”

We contacted the U.S. Marshals Service for the District of New Mexico to ask whether Madrid could face additional charges beyond the original drug-related offenses. Specifically, we asked whether authorities could confirm Madrid’s immigration status, whether he could face charges related to working under an assumed identity (identity fraud or false identification), unlawful flight to avoid prosecution, or failure to appear in court, and whether any additional charges were expected to be announced.

Deputy U.S. Marshal Enrique Castillo responded, “Due to the longevity of Madrid being on the run, no new information has been identified at this time. At this time, no additional charges have been filed.“

The Southwest Investigative Fugitive Task Force works to improve public safety and reduce violence throughout New Mexico by identifying, investigating, and apprehending individuals wanted for serious crimes against the community. The task force remains committed to ensuring the equal application of Justice, Integrity, and Service for all.

Anyone with information regarding wanted fugitives is encouraged to contact their nearest U.S. Marshals Service office, call the U.S. Marshals Service Communications Center at 1-800-336-0102, or submit information through the USMS Tips App.