Repeat offenders arrested; grenade confiscated

COEUR d’ALENE — Between the three of them, two men and a woman arrested Thursday by Kootenai County Sheriff’s deputies have been previously booked into the Kootenai County jail a combined total of 68 times.

Richard A. Allen, 44; Leo J. Decker, 33; and Alexandra J. Helton, 21; were taken into custody after deputies responded to a call at 3:19 p.m. about a suspicious vehicle parked behind a wire blocking vehicles from entering near the Blue Creek Landing, east of Coeur d’Alene.

The deputies located a truck and the three individuals behind the wire which, according to the Sheriff’s Office, was freshly cut and had a new lock put on it. The wire was clearly marked for no motor vehicles behind the wire.

The deputies reported Allen, Decker and Helton would not follow directions and they appeared to be under the influence of an intoxicating substance.

At the request of a probation officer, a search of the vehicle was conducted by the deputies. Deputies allegedly located methamphetamine, other suspected drugs, paraphernalia, burglary tools, and possible stolen property. Deputies also reported finding an active simulated hand grenade used by the military.

Allen was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and a probation violation. He has been booked into the Kootenai County jail 34 previous times.

Decker was arrested for a probation violation. This is his 27th booking into the jail.

Helton was arrested for frequenting a place where drugs are used. She has previously been booked into the jail eight times.

The investigation is still active and further charges are expected. The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office Explosive Device Unit assisted in the investigation and took possession of the explosive device located.