Defendant argues for bail, release

Michael Hicks of Kalispell appeared before the 20th District Judicial Court on Tuesday to argue for a bail reduction and his release. Hicks is facing the felony charge of criminal distribution of dangerous drugs after a witness placed him in a bar in Hot Springs May 15. Charging documents explain that Hicks has been implicated in a drug deal that resulted in the death of a Hot Springs man. His attorney, Kirk Krutilla, explained that Hicks has a wife and kids in Kalispell who rely on his income in construction. County attorney Naomi Leisz was opposed to the reduction and release, explaining that Flathead County is currently filing a petition to revoke Hicks’ parole because of a violation. “Given the seriousness of the allegation and the charge I am denying this (the release and reduction),” Judge James Manley said.

Lawrence Sweet was sentenced to five years with the Department of Corrections (DOC) for criminal possession of dangerous drugs. Sweet was in a vehicle pulled over in Thompson Falls on March 7. Charging documents say drugs and drug paraphernalia were found in the vehicle, and Sweet was on parole at the time. Bernard Christian, a man with many years of experience working with the DOC helping to reform addicts, advocated on Sweet’s behalf as a witness in court Tuesday. Christian testified that in veteran court, Sweet had done well and Christian recommends that Sweet be returned to veteran drug court. Christian also recommended that Sweet become a mentor to troubled youth and warn them of the dangers of addiction. Sweet has been given 156 days of credit for time served and Judge Manley recommended Sweet be considered for veteran drug treatment court.

Mitchell Raymond appeared in district court facing charges of criminal possession of dangerous drugs, possession of dangerous drugs with intent to sell and obstructing justice. According to charging documents, on July 21, 2020, Raymond was in a vehicle pulled over in Thompson Falls. The vehicle was moving erratically on the road, which initiated the stop. Officers were familiar with Raymond’s connection to illegal drug activity in surrounding counties, documents state, and Raymond was acting suspicious during the stop. The vehicle was impounded and searched, whereafter drugs were found in the vehicle. As per a plea agreement, Raymond pleaded guilty to one charge of criminal possession of dangerous drugs and the other charges were dropped. He was committed to the DOC for five years and given credit for 189 days served in jail.