Wade (left) and Craig. | Photos via HCDTF.

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Press release from the Humboldt County Drug Task Force:

On October 15th, 2020, special agents with the Humboldt County Drug Task Force (HCDTF) made a traffic stop on a vehicle on Highway 101 at the south end of Benbow Dr. in southern Humboldt. Agents had a signed search warrant for both occupants of the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle, Michael Wade (27 years old from Rio Dell), and his passenger, Josie Craig (27 years old from Garberville), have been under investigation by HCDTF for several weeks for trafficking heroin from southern California into Humboldt County. Agents were also aware that Wade had two felony warrants for his arrest. 

When agents attempted contact Wade ran from the vehicle down a short embankment. Wade then realized he was surrounded and he stopped and was taken into custody without incident. Craig was detained at the vehicle. 

Agents searched the vehicle and located a digital scale as well as pay/owe sheets. Agents advised Craig they had information that she was concealing drugs on her person. Craig admitted to agents that she had hidden heroin in her body cavities. A female State Parks Ranger arrived on scene and stood by with Craig while Craig removed the evidence from her body. Agents took possession of approx. two ounces of heroin. 

Wade had been driving the vehicle and was showing objective signs of being under the influence of heroin. CHP-Garberville Officers were requested to respond to the scene for a DUI evaluation. CHP Officers conducted a DUI investigation which led to Wade’s arrest for driving under the influence of drugs. 

Wade was transported to the Humboldt County Jail where he was booked for his felony warrants as well as the following charges:

  • H&S 11379(b) Transportation of heroin across non-contiguous counties
  • VC 23152(f) Driving under the influence of drugs
The following charge will be requested for Craig: 
  • H&S 11379(b) Transportation of heroin across non-contiguous counties

HCDTF would like to thank the California Highway Patrol and State Parks for their assistance with this investigation. 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.