Traffic stop leads to arrest of 2 for drugs

According to court documents and a probable cause statement, Deputy Ryan Smith made a traffic stop around 12:13 p.m. Monday on an anticipatory search warrant for Harris and the vehicle. Smith identified Harris as the driver and Hodapp as the passenger.

The Task Force, documents say, had intel that Harris and Hodapp were allegedly transferring methamphetamine from the Twin Cities to the Iron Range.

A search of the vehicle by Smith revealed a black backpack located on the floor behind the driver’s seat containing about two pounds of a substance that field tested for methamphetamine. Smith also located a digital scale and U.S. money.

Smith, according to the documents, knew from surveillance and experience that transporters of large amounts of drugs generally distribute to smaller dealers. Smith believed that Hodapp and Harris conspired with smaller dealers or users in the area, and conspired to distribute methamphetamine on the Range.

During the vehicle search, Smith also recovered packaging material, baggies, a backpack, a glove and a black shaving kit.

Both were charged with one count of a first-degree controlled substance crime with intent to sell or distribute more than 10 grams of methamphetamine. They were also charged with first-degree possession of 25 or more grams of cocaine, heroin or methamphetamine.

Each offense carries a possible penalty of 30 years in prison and up to $1 million in fines. A second or subsequent violation carries between four and 40 years in prison and up to $1 million in fines.

Harris, who is due in court next Monday for an initial appearance, has a prior controlled substance conviction in 2007.

Hodapp will also make his initial appearance Monday.