Cass Lake Woman Faces Fentanyl, DWI Charges

Cass Lake (trfnews.i234.me) — Billie Jo Holstein faces felony drug possession and misdemeanor DWI charges in Beltrami County.

The charges stem from a traffic stop.

Prosecutors allege fentanyl was found inside Holstein’s purse during a search of her vehicle.

The allegations are detailed in Beltrami County District Court file 04-CR-24-661.

Traffic Stop Begins Investigation

A Beltrami County deputy was patrolling Roosevelt Road at about 9:19 p.m.

The deputy noticed a van with what was described as a loud muffler.

A traffic stop was then conducted, according to the criminal complaint.

Holstein was identified as the driver.

The deputy reported that Holstein had red and glassy eyes.

The complaint also says she appeared restless and spoke quickly.

Authorities suspected recent controlled substance use and began a DWI investigation.

Holstein participated in field sobriety testing.

The complaint says investigators observed signs they believed showed impairment.

Holstein allegedly told investigators she had struggled with methamphetamine use for years.

She also allegedly said she had used methamphetamine earlier that morning.

Authorities obtained a search warrant for a blood or urine sample.

A urine sample was collected for testing by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

The complaint was filed before those laboratory results were described.

Authorities also searched Holstein’s vehicle during the investigation.

Deputies reported finding a small package containing white powder inside Holstein’s purse.

A field test indicated the substance was fentanyl, according to the complaint.

Investigators planned to send the substance to the BCA for laboratory testing.

Prosecutors charged Holstein with fifth-degree controlled substance possession.

The complaint identifies fentanyl as a Schedule II controlled substance.

Minnesota Statute 152.025 covers fifth-degree controlled substance crimes.

The felony charge carries a listed maximum of five years and a $10,000 fine.

Holstein also faces a misdemeanor DWI charge involving a Schedule I or II controlled substance.

Minnesota Statute 169A.20 defines several forms of impaired driving.

The complaint lists a maximum of 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Public case records may be available through Minnesota Court Records Online.

The charges are allegations and do not establish guilt.

Holstein is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.