Missoula Police K9 Discovers Meth in a Vehicle

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On March 11, 2024, a Missoula County Sheriff’s Office Deputy was working patrol near the Wye when he observed a vehicle that did not have a working brake lamp on the passenger side and was missing the top center brake lamp. The deputy conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle and observed two occupants who seemed to be shuffling around in it.  

The deputy made contact with the occupants and the passenger was identified as Nichole Hill. In speaking with the pair, the deputy immediately observed various torches and alcohol prep pads in plain view. Upon running the occupant’s information, the deputy found both to have local warrants. The deputy was also familiar with both individuals from previous investigations and knows them both to use methamphetamine.  

The driver was mirandized and stated he and Hill had been at the Gray Wolf Casino. The deputy is familiar with the Gray Wolf Casino as a location known for the distribution and procurement of dangerous drugs.  

READ MORE: Missoula News – Crime Reports 

A short time later, the deputy observed bags that resembled possible drug kits around Hill’s feet. Based on the totality of the circumstances, the deputy requested a Missoula Police Department Officer respond to run his K9 Zip. K9 Zip positively alerted to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle.  

The deputy applied for and was granted a search warrant for the vehicle. During the search, the deputy discovered some kind of drug kit directly below where Hill was sitting, which included a digital scale with residue, a zip top bag with white crystalline substance, and white crystal rocks. The substance was tested using the ACE-ID, which provided a presumptive positive for methamphetamine.  

The deputy also found a baggie that contained a dozen or so small zip top baggies. Within a purse that Hill identified as belonging to her, the deputy found a black pouch containing two more scales and baggies with and without residue. 

Hill was placed under arrest and was transported to the Missoula County Detention Center. She is currently being charged with felony criminal possession of dangerous drugs.  

The information in this article was obtained from sources that are publicly viewable.