Man arrested on drug charges during probation checks

A Libby man was arrested for possession of drugs and paraphernalia while law enforcement officers last month were checking on another person on probation.

Corey R. James, 29, on Dec. 20 was charged in Lincoln County Justice Court with criminal possession of dangerous drugs, a felony, and possession of drug paraphernalia, a misdemeanor.

If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of five years, six months in prison and a total $50,500 in fines. Lincoln County Justice of the Peace Jay Sheffield set his bail at $10,000.

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’ preliminary hearing has been set for 1:30 p.m. on Jan. 4 in Lincoln County Justice Court.