Two area residents are facing multiple drug-related felony charges after authorities say they found several drug-related items in a vehicle following a traffic stop on September 12 in Ray County.
A probable-cause statement says the driver did not give consent to search the vehicle, so, with the help of a K9, authorities found 92 unused needles; small amounts of methamphetamine and marijuana; multiple controlled pills; digital scales; other drug-related items; two additional license plates; $1,020 in $100 and $1 bills; and numerous items thought to be stolen. The passenger also reportedly had another needle containing methamphetamine on her when she was booked at the Ray County Jail.
According to online court documents, 47-year-old Steven Ray Bittiker, of Carrollton, has been charged a Class C and E Felonies for Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Except 35 Grams or Less of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoid and a Class D Felony for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Except 35 Grams or Less of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoid. The passenger, 32-year-old Karissa Marie Sorensen is facing a Class D Felony for Delivery or Possession of a Controlled Substance at a County Jail Without a Prescription; and two Class D Felonies for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Except 35 Grams or Less of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoid. Each also has been charged with some misdemeanors. Bond for each has been set at $50,000 cash or corporate surety- no 10-percent allowed.
An initial hearing for each of the accused is pending at Ray County Circuit Court.