Garfield man accused of selling methamphetamine pleads not guilty

Lawrence Kriebel, a 67-year-old resident of Garfield, pleaded not guilty to felony charges of methamphetamine distribution in Whitman County Superior Court. The charge of possession with intent to deliver carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine. The investigation started when the Whitman County Sheriff’s Office employed a covert Facebook profile to engage with Kriebel, who was suspected of supplying narcotics locally based on previous drug investigations. Court documents reveal that Kriebel arranged to meet undercover deputies for a drug transaction, where he was subsequently arrested. During the arrest, authorities found methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia in his vehicle.

After his arrest, Kriebel was released from jail on bail and is expected to stand trial in February. The operation highlights ongoing efforts by local law enforcement to combat drug distribution in the community. Kriebel's case underscores the significant legal consequences associated with drug trafficking offenses.