08/26/2026
Press Release
At approximately 7:38 p.m. on August 24, 2026, Lt. Christian Powell of the Altamont Police Department conducted a traffic stop for a speeding violation. During initial contact with the vehicle's male driver and male passenger, Lt. Powell detected the odor of raw ma*****na coming from the vehicle based on his training and experience.
Lt. Powell instructed both occupants to exit the vehicle so that a probable cause search for illegal narcotics could be conducted. Both individuals repeatedly refused to comply with his directives. Due to their behavior, Lt. Powell requested assistance from the Labette County Sheriff's Office. After the deputies' arrival, both subjects were detained in handcuffs, and Lt. Powell conducted a search of the vehicle.
During the search, ma*****na was located in several areas of the vehicle. Lt. Powell also discovered a loaded semi-automatic handgun beneath a seat. A continued search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a cardboard shipping box in the trunk containing 291 factory-packaged THC ma*****na v**e cartridges, each containing 2 grams of liquid THC. The total amount seized was approximately 582 grams, or 1.28 pounds, of liquid THC.
After completing the search, Lt. Powell attempted to interview both subjects regarding the narcotics; however, they declined to provide statements. They did indicate that they had stopped in Altamont to visit a female resident who lives in Altamont. Both subjects were advised they were under arrest and were transported to the Labette County Jail in Oswego, Kansas.
Lt. Powell completed and submitted probable cause affidavits to the Labette County Attorney's Office recommending the following charges:
• Distribution of Ma*****na
• Possession of Ma*****na
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
• Interference with a Law Enforcement Officer
• No Drug Tax Stamp
• Maximum Speed Violation
Additionally, after reviewing the criminal histories of both subjects, it was determined that one individual had a prior felony conviction. As a result, Lt. Powell requested an additional charge of Criminal Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.
Both subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This remains an active and ongoing investigation.
The Altamont Police Department remains committed to proactively enforcing the law and keeping our community safe. I am proud of the work performed by Lt. Powell in removing an illegally possessed firearm and a significant quantity of illegal narcotics off the streets, helping prevent their distribution within our community and elsewhere.
Michael Shields
Chief of Police
Altamont Police Department
