Former Denver narcotics sergeant charged with illegal drug possession

DENVER – A former narcotics sergeant with the Denver Police Department faces several felony drug charges related to an illegal marijuana operation.

Hubert “Marty” Vanover, 53, faces marijuana or concentrate possession with intent to distribute, methamphetamine possession and both felony and misdemeanor counts of possession of marijuana or concentrate.

Neighbors complained to Denver police over the summer about the odor of marijuana coming from Vanover’s house in the 4900 block of South Field Way.

As officers were conducting a warrant search of the home on Sept. 22 when they allegedly found at least two pounds of marijuana, as well as methamphetamine and a pipe, according to a probable cause statement for Vanover’s arrest.

The statement says Vanover drove by as officers were at the home. He was pulled over and arrested.

DPD fired Vanover in June 2014 after his badge was revoked when he was charged with threatening to kill his girlfriend, according to Denver7’s news partners at the Denver Post. But after the department’s order, he continued to use his badge in certain instances and lied to internal affairs investigators.

Vanover has since posted a $2,000 personal recognizance bond and was released from custody. He is next scheduled for formal advisement on the charges Oct. 21.