Itasca County (trfnews.i234.me) — A Shakopee man faces major drug charges after a traffic stop near Cohasset, Minnesota.
Kenneth Dean Smith is accused of drug trafficking in northern Minnesota. The case is based on court records.
Traffic Stop Details
On February 16, deputies received a tip about Smith’s travel plans. The tip said he was headed into Itasca County.
Deputies stopped Smith on County Road 63 near Cohasset. He was driving a black Expedition, according to the report.
The vehicle’s license plate raised concerns during the stop. The plate returned to a person listed as deceased.
Investigators then requested a canine unit. The dog was used to search the vehicle.
Drugs Seized
Authorities say they found large amounts of suspected drugs. They reported seizing 529 grams of methamphetamine.
They also reported seizing 3.9 grams of cocaine. Court records list both substances as evidence.
Charges and Possible Sentence
Smith is charged with felony first-degree sale of 17 grams or more of meth. The complaint alleges the amount falls within a 90-day period.
That charge carries a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, according to the report.
He also faces other counts tied to the stop. Those include drug paraphernalia possession.
Additional charges include refusal to submit to a chemical test. He is also charged with DWI.
Authorities also charged him with driving after cancellation. The complaint lists each count separately.
Background and Next Steps
Court records say Smith has an extensive criminal history. Prosecutors may cite that history in future hearings.
Charges are allegations. Smith is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
For more information on Minnesota drug laws, see the Minnesota Revisor of Statutes.
For impaired driving facts, visit the NHTSA drunk driving resource page.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.