TRF Woman Arrested for Storing Meth in Child’s Reach

Thief River Falls, Minnesota (trfnews.i234.me) — Jessica Lynn Maunz, a 30-year-old mother from Thief River Falls, is facing felony charges after authorities found methamphetamine paraphernalia stored within reach of her young child.

Charges and Investigation Details

On January 21, 2026, an officer responded to a call from a concerned relative, C.A., about a video involving Maunz’s 18-month-old child, A.A. The video showed the child near a white powdery substance and a methamphetamine pipe inside the home. The relative expressed concern about the child being exposed to methamphetamine.

Upon reviewing the video, the officer identified the substance and glass pipe, consistent with methamphetamine use. The footage also showed Maunz, the child’s mother, interacting with A.A. while near the suspected drug paraphernalia.

Search Warrant and Discovery

Based on the video evidence, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for Maunz’s residence. When officers arrived at the home, Maunz handed over a methamphetamine pipe from a children’s shoe bin. The search revealed multiple additional methamphetamine pipes within the home, all located in areas within the child’s reach. Each item tested positive for methamphetamine.

Among the paraphernalia found were broken pipes under furniture and in an open cardboard box containing baby wipes. These items were all located on the floor, in areas where A.A. could easily access them.

Maunz’s Statement

Maunz was arrested, and social services placed her child, A.A., under protective custody. During questioning, Maunz admitted to using methamphetamine for several months. She acknowledged that she was aware of the video, and she claimed to smoke in the garage or living room while A.A. was sleeping. However, Maunz was uncertain if she had exposed A.A. to methamphetamine smoke.

Charges Against Maunz

Maunz has been charged with the following:

• Count I: Storing Meth Paraphernalia in the Presence of a Child (Felony charge, up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine)

• Count II: Contributing to the Need for Protection or Services (Gross misdemeanor charge, up to 364 days in jail and a $3,000 fine)

Investigation Ongoing

Law enforcement continues to investigate the case, and Maunz remains in custody pending formal charges.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.