Couple passing through C-Falls face meth lab charge

A man and a woman passing through Columbia Falls on their way from California to North Dakota have been charged with operation of a methamphetamine lab.

Timothy Holt, 30, and Cindy Pruett, 41, pleaded not guilty to that charge and others in Flathead County District Court on July 11. Both are charged with felony counts of burglary and operation of an unlawful clandestine laboratory. In addition, Pruett is charged with felony forgery, and Holt is charged with felony accountability to forgery.

According to court documents, Holt and Pruett allegedly stole a checkbook and wrote more than $2,700 in bad checks. The victim said the couple were staying at her grandfather’s residence, where the checks were stolen.

A search of the bedroom where the pair were staying allegedly turned up mail and other personal documents belonging to other people. Video surveillance allegedly showed Pruett writing the checks and Holt carrying items from stores.

The couple were arrested after they allegedly tried to use a stolen credit card. Pruett was located and arrested, and allegedly directed police to the Outlaw Inn, where Holt was staying. He was then found and arrested.

After Pruett allegedly gave police permission to search the motel room, a meth pipe was found that Holt said was his. A syringe also was found that he claimed belonged to Pruett.

Holt also allegedly confessed to burglarizing a U.S. 2 storage unit with Pruett, and that the stolen items were in their vehicle, along with a meth lab. Burglary tools were also allegedly found in the vehicle.

The couple reportedly have extensive criminal histories. Holt has been convicted in the past of theft and forgery. Pruett has been convicted of forgery, burglary and drug possession and currently is on probation in California. The U.S. Attorney’s Office said it may file additional charges. Both are considered flight risks.

If convicted of all their charges, each faces up to 80 years in prison and a fine of up to $125,000. They are currently in the Flathead County Detention Center, each held on a $100,000 bond. Their next hearing is scheduled for Aug. 28.