A narcotics investigation led by the Trident Drug Enforcement Team resulted in the seizure of methamphetamine, crack cocaine and cash following a traffic stop in Chippewa County earlier this week.
According to authorities, Trident had received information that large amounts of methamphetamine were being smuggled into the area. In the early morning hours of May 26, officers from the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Office and Sault Tribe Police Department stopped a suspect vehicle as part of the investigation.
Three people were reportedly inside the vehicle. Investigators said the occupants were found in possession of ounces of methamphetamine and crack cocaine.
Patricia Ellen Hurt, 60, of Dafter, was arrested on charges of possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine, possession of crack cocaine, conspiracy to deliver methamphetamine and fourth-offense habitual offender status.
Dawson Eugene Rolph-Ripley, 23, of Sault Ste. Marie, was arrested on a charge of delivery of methamphetamine stemming from a separate investigation.
Hurt and Rolph-Ripley were arraigned May 27 in 91st District Court. Authorities said the third subject has not yet been arraigned as investigators continue to submit evidence to the prosecutor’s office for review. Officials indicated they believe all three subjects could ultimately face charges connected to the investigation.
A search warrant was later executed on the vehicle, where additional evidence and U.S. currency were seized.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
