KCSO busts cocaine operation in Rathdrum

A cocaine manufacturing operation in Rathdrum was raided by the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office on Friday.

Detectives from the Special Investigation Unit, with assistance from the Coeur d’Alene Police Department’s Community Action Team, executed a search warrant about 11:30 a.m. at a residence in the 7000 block of West Crenshaw Street, according to a press release.

Detectives discovered an active crack cocaine manufacturing setup inside the residence. Additional evidence located during the search included powder cocaine, methamphetamine, illegally possessed hydrocodone and more than 2 pounds of psilocybin mushrooms.

Detectives arrested James M. Pond, 61, of Rathdrum, for manufacturing crack cocaine, possession of cocaine, methamphetamine and hydrocodone, and possession with intent to deliver psilocybin mushrooms.

Investigators also seized multiple firearms, ammunition, drug distribution materials, including scales and packaging, and cash, the release said.

During the search, detectives also discovered a family with three children living in a shed behind the main residence. The Rathdrum Police Department responded to assist and initiated a separate child abuse investigation. 

Summons for child abuse were issued to the children’s parents, and the three minors were placed into the custody of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, the release said.

The warrant was obtained as part of an ongoing SIU investigation into suspected drug trafficking activity.

Pond was booked into the Kootenai County jail, where he is being held without bail, the release said.

An investigation continues.

    Some of the items seized at a Rathdrum home where a cocaine operation was busted by the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office.