Washington man facing multiple trafficking charges in Shoshone County

WALLACE — A Washington man is facing two felony drug trafficking charges and three misdemeanor drug-related charges after a traffic stop in Shoshone County allegedly led to the discovery of methamphetamine, fentanyl and marijuana. 

Kenneth Sentieri, 44, appeared Tuesday in Shoshone County Magistrate Court on charges of trafficking methamphetamine and fentanyl, possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Sentieri was alleged to have between 28 and 200 grams of methamphetamine and between 14 and 27 grams of fentanyl in his possession. 

According to a probable cause affidavit, an Idaho State Police trooper stopped Sentieri at the Maverik gas station in Smelterville after observing a traffic violation. During the stop, the trooper reported smelling marijuana and searched the vehicle. 

After being questioned, Sentieri allegedly acknowledged there was a small amount of marijuana in the vehicle and later said there was a small amount of methamphetamine present. A subsequent search allegedly uncovered about 51.4 grams of suspected methamphetamine, 20.7 grams of suspected fentanyl, seven Suboxone strips, 84.5 grams of marijuana, a digital scale, plastic baggies and other drug paraphernalia. 

The affidavit states Sentieri initially told investigators another individual was responsible for some of the drugs found in the vehicle but later acknowledged ownership of the items discovered during the search. Laboratory testing was pending when prosecutors filed the affidavit. 

The charges filed largely mirror the allegations outlined in the affidavit. Along with the two felony trafficking counts, prosecutors filed misdemeanor charges of possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. 

Unlike simple possession cases, Idaho's drug trafficking statutes impose mandatory minimum prison terms based on the quantity of drugs involved. Under state law, possession of 28 grams or more of methamphetamine carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of three years and a maximum sentence of 15 years, while possession of 14 grams or more of fentanyl carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

Sentieri is being held on a $25,000 bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 22.