Suspicious Vehicle Leads to Drug Arrest, Valley Springs 

August 15, 2025 – Calaveras County Sheriff's Office officials report that on August 8th, 2025, at approximately 8:00 p.m., a Calaveras County Sheriff’s deputy was conducting routine patrol in the area of Ross Drive in Valley Springs. The deputy located an SUV parked in the middle of the roadway, creating a traffic hazard.

A records check was conducted on the occupants, revealing that the passenger, Ellamarie Vancil, was on searchable probation out of San Joaquin County for possession of narcotics. When asked, Ellamarie advised the deputy that she was currently in possession of methamphetamine and a methamphetamine pipe within her belongings.

During a search of the vehicle, approximately 1.8 grams of methamphetamine, methamphetamine pipes, and several counterfeit one-hundred-dollar bills were recovered. While searching Ellamarie Vancil, an additional counterfeit one-hundred-dollar bill was found in her right front pants pocket.

In total, over 20 syringes were found, some still containing methamphetamine, all confirmed by Ellamarie Vancil as belonging to her.

Ellamarie Vancil was arrested and booked at the Calaveras County Jail on charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance with Priors (Felony), Possession of Unlawful Paraphernalia (Misdemeanor), Probation Violation (Misdemeanor), and Possession of Counterfeit Currency (Misdemeanor).

Source & photos: Calaveras County Sheriff's Office