Humboldt County Drug Task Force press release:

Last week the Humboldt County Drug Task Force (HCDTF) seized approximately 4 pounds of suspected heroin in Southern Humboldt County. The suspects in the case were identified as Jessie Kate Hawk (aka “JK” age 38) and David Eugene Couch (age 62).

On November 20th, 2019, at approximately 9:45 p.m., HCDTF special agents conducted a traffic stop on Highway 101 near the Miranda exit. During their multi-week investigation, agents received information that one of the occupants of the vehicle, Jessie Kate Hawk, is distributing heroin throughout Humboldt County. Through their investigation, HCDTF agents were able to secure a search warrant for vehicles occupied by Hawk.

During the traffic stop, agents detained both Hawk and Couch without incident. Agents searched the vehicle pursuant to the search warrant and located approximately 4 pounds of suspected heroin packaged for sales.

Hawk and Couch (attached are previous booking photographs) both had medical conditions that would not allow for booking and they were subsequently released from the scene. Agents will be submitting their reports to the Humboldt County District Attorney’s Office requesting prosecution on these suspects for transportation and possession of controlled substances for sales.

Anyone with information related to this investigation or other narcotics related crimes are encouraged to call the Humboldt County Drug Task Force at 707-267-9976 or the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Tip Line at 707-268-2539.