A Plains man is accused of attempting to distribute drugs in Lake County. Leon Charles Hendry, 55, entered a plea of not guilty in District Court in Polson Jan. 15 to criminal possession with intent to distribute.

According to charging documents, on Dec. 16, 2024, law enforcement observed Hendry driving a white 2020 Toyota Tundra with an expired registration. He was driving 15 miles per hour below the posted speed limit in the passing lane, which hindered traffic for two miles.

Law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on the Toyota and Hendry was identified as the driver. His driver’s license was suspended, and he had no registration and no proof of insurance in the vehicle. He was also wanted on an outstanding warrant from Sanders County.

His passenger, known by law enforcement to be involved in drug activity, was also arrested on a warrant.

A K-9 unit was brought in and responded to something on the passenger side of the Toyota. Law enforcement seized the vehicle and obtained a search warrant for it.

The subsequent search of the Toyota turned up 100 three-by-four-inch plastic baggies, a digital scale with white residue, a meth pipe and a large baggie containing 14.3 ounces of suspected methamphetamine.

Judge Molly Owen set the case for trial on July 14. Hendry was set free on his own recognizance as long as he is able to afford his own GPS monitoring device, and follow a number of other court-ordered conditions.