Traffic Stop in Chico Leads to Arrests and Narcotics Seizure
05.27.2026 "Media Release"
By: Will Sheffield
On August 24, 2026, at approximately 8:47 p.m., a Butte County Sheriff’s Office deputy conducted a traffic stop in the area of Greenwich Drive and W. 11th Avenue after observing a vehicle code violation.
During the stop, the driver was identified as Chase Waller, 36, of Chico, who deputies confirmed was on CDC parole. The passengers were identified as Thomas Ditman, 40, of Chico, and Lynda Dickens, 33, of Chico.
During the investigation, deputies learned Dickens had an outstanding arrest warrant, and she was taken into custody. Deputies then conducted a parole search of the vehicle. During the subsequent investigation, deputies located numerous items of evidence, including 52.3 grams of fentanyl, 12.7 grams of suspected heroin, and 1.3 grams of methamphetamine. Deputies also located packaging materials consistent with narcotics sales, a digital scale, and drug paraphernalia.
Lynda Dickens was arrested on her outstanding warrant. Thomas Ditman was arrested for possession of a controlled substance for sale. Chase Waller was arrested for violation of parole and possession of narcotics.
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