North County trio accused of child involvement in drug operation

Three residents of North County are facing serious charges for allegedly involving children in the illegal cultivation and sale of psilocybin mushrooms. A federal grand jury indictment claims that a 9-year-old and an 11-year-old assisted the defendants at sites in Fallbrook and Bonsall. The couple, Randal Vance, 42, and Rebecca Vance, 41, along with 33-year-old Keir Ceballos-Rivera, are charged with drug trafficking. Psilocybin mushrooms, known for their hallucinogenic effects, are illegal under both California and federal laws. Prosecutors say that the defendants tried to destroy evidence by deleting messages and shutting down websites used for selling the drugs. The exact relationship between the defendants and the children has not been disclosed. Text messages reveal that Randal Vance reportedly described the kids' involvement. He allegedly sent a photo of a child holding a mushroom, stating that the “11-year-old helps me grow them.” Another message included a photo of a child with their face hidden, with a warning that “No face, no case.” One child, previously a middle school student, mentioned selling a psilocybin capsule for $3. Randal Vance responded, reminding him to keep it secret from parents to avoid trouble. He even discussed giving psilocybin microdoses to children, claiming it was “good for kids’ brains.” A judge has ordered that the Vances be held without bond. Ceballos-Rivera is scheduled for a detention hearing next week.