Libby man pleads not guilty to drug charges

A Libby man pleaded not guilty on Monday to criminal possession of dangerous drugs, a felony, and possession of drug paraphernalia, a misdemeanor.

Corey R. James 29, was arrested in December for possession of drugs and paraphernalia while law enforcement officers were checking on another person on probation.

If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of five years, six months in prison and a total $50,500 in fines.

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputy Brad Dodson reported on Dec. 20 that probation and parole officer Steve Watson requested his assistance on a probation check at a Libby residence. James was inside the home, but was not the person they were there to check on, according to court documents. While searching the residence, officers allegedly found needles and a marijuana pipe inside James’ backpack. At the home, James was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.

After he was arrested, officers allegedly found a pouch inside James’ pocket containing a substance that tests later showed to be methamphetamine, according to court documents.

James’ omnibus has been set March 6 in Lincoln County District Court.