Drug Agent Released After Posting Bail

MARTINEZ, Calif. (AP) -- The former commander of a Contra Costa County narcotics task force who was arrested for allegedly stealing and selling drugs has been released after posting bail.

The Contra Costa Times reports that Norman Wielsch walked out of jail after his bail was reduced from $1 million to $400,000 Friday.

His release came after Wielsch was arraigned on 28 felony counts, including drug possession. He did not enter a plea during the hearing.

Wielsch's attorney, Michael Cardoza, says his client fell into debt after his daughter required a bone marrow transplant.

Wielsch is accused of selling thousands of dollars of drugs, including methamphetamine, with the help of 49-year-old Christopher Butler, a private investigator.

Butler is facing the same charges as Wielsch. He was being held on $900,000 bail.

Both men are expected to enter pleas when they return to court March 2.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)