Suspect in Oil Patch Bust Jailed in California for Murder

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — One of the suspects charged in a widespread drug investigation in the North Dakota oil patch was arrested earlier this month in California on murder and other charges.

Twenty-four-year-old Spencer Rogers was among 22 people arrested in a North Dakota case dubbed Operation Pipe Cleaner. He is facing five counts, including drug conspiracy and weapons charges.

Documents in Kern County, Calif., show that Rogers was arrested earlier this month and charged with a dozen offenses, including first-degree murder, assault with a semi-automatic firearm and participating in a street gang.

Rogers is being held without bail. Court documents do not list a lawyer for him.

The conspiracy in North Dakota allegedly involved the distribution of heroin, methamphetamine, crack cocaine, cocaine, marijuana and painkillers. Four people were arrested on weapons charges.