Grand Forks, ND (trfnews.i234.me)—A Grand Forks woman pleaded guilty and was sentenced last month after being caught selling methamphetamine within 165 feet of Lewis and Clark Elementary School.
Defendant: Tara Rose Garza, 38 Charge: Class A Felony – Possession of Meth with Intent to Deliver Sentence: 10 years, serving three years in prison, followed by three years of supervised probation
The Drug Arrest
According to court records, law enforcement obtained surveillance footage from Oct. 4, 2024, showing Garza engaging in a suspected drug exchange.
When officers later located and searched her, they discovered:
$186 in cash A designer baggie containing 2.6 grams of meth Seven additional small baggies
Enhanced Felony Charge
Garza’s charge was elevated to a Class A felony because she was within 300 feet of a school, at a time when children were present. This enhancement led to a harsher penalty under North Dakota law.
Sentencing & Prison Time
On Jan. 13, 2025, Garza was sentenced to:
10 years with the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Must serve three years before supervised probation Three years of supervised release after serving her prison term Credit for 102 days already served
Final Thoughts
Authorities continue to crack down on drug activity near schools to ensure public safety. This case highlights the severe consequences of drug trafficking in school zones.
I’m Chris Harper, reporting for trfnews.i234.me