From the Probable Cause Affidavit:
On June 18, 2025, at approximately 2143 hours, Ozark County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a concerned Party that, Samantha Johnson, was allegedly intoxicated and driving a white Ford Explorer with a red canoe strapped to the top, accompanied by her juvenile child.
A Be On the Lookout (BOLO) was issued by dispatch to Ozark County Sheriff’s Office and Missouri State Highway Patrol for the described vehicle, suspected of being operated by a female driver under the influence.
At approximately 2143 hours, while on general patrol on US Highway 160, Deputy Phelan observed a vehicle matching the BOLO description—a white Ford Explorer with a red canoe strapped to the top— passing our location. Deputies followed the vehicle to a safe location in Isabella, near the Old Kyle Store, and initiated a traffic stop.
Deputy Phelan approached the vehicle and identified himself as an Ozark County Sheriff’s Deputy. The reason for the stop was explained, referencing the BOLO for a female driver, Samantha Johnson, suspected of driving while intoxicated with a juvenile child. Samantha Johnson was confirmed as the front passenger, not the driver, and showed signs of intoxication. The juvenile was seated behind the driver of the vehicle.
Deputy Lane obtained verbal consent from Samantha Johnson to search the vehicle. During the search, Deputy Hunter Ryan located two pipes in a case where Samantha Johnson had been seated in easy access of the juvenile. Both pipes field-tested positive for methamphetamine residue. Additional items found included paraphernalia for smoking and grinding marijuana. No further controlled substances were located.
Johnson is charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Endangering the Welfare of a Child.
