Otter Tail County Woman Faces Drug Charges

Otter Tail County (trfnews.i234.me) — A Borup, Minnesota woman faced drug-related charges following a traffic stop investigation in Otter Tail County.

According to court documents, Colleen May Smith, born July 8, 1980, was charged in Otter Tail County District Court with drug possession and possession of hypodermic syringes.

The case was filed on December 30, 2021. Court records list the charges under Court File No. 56-CR-21-3130.

Smith was charged with fifth-degree drug possession. The complaint states the charge involved a controlled substance identified as methamphetamine.

The charge is listed as a gross misdemeanor under Minnesota law. The maximum penalty listed in the complaint is up to one year in jail and a possible fine.

Traffic Stop Leads to Investigation

The complaint states the investigation began on October 21, 2021.

A vehicle was stopped in the area of U.S. Highway 59 and County Highway 88 in Otter Tail County.

The stop was initiated after a vehicle was observed with a headlight problem.

The driver was identified as Robert Butts. Smith was identified as a passenger in the vehicle.

During the stop, officers reported smelling marijuana. The complaint states a marijuana pipe was turned over during the investigation.

A search of the vehicle was then conducted, according to court records.

The complaint states a search under the front passenger seat found drug-related items.

Investigators reported finding four hypodermic syringes and a container with a substance that tested positive for methamphetamine.

Additional Syringe Possession Charge

Smith also faced a misdemeanor charge involving possession or control of hypodermic syringes or needles.

The complaint states the offense involved items that could be used for subcutaneous injections.

The maximum penalty listed for that charge is up to 90 days in jail and a possible $1,000 fine.

Court Records

The charges are allegations contained in a criminal complaint. A defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

More information about Minnesota court cases is available through the Minnesota Judicial Branch.

Otter Tail County court information and government services are available through the county’s official website at Otter Tail County.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.