New Orleans Woman Arrested in Effingham on Drug Charges

(NICOLE YEATES)

A New Orleans, Louisiana woman was arrested in Effingham Monday night on drug charges.

47-year-old Nicole L. Yeates was arrested and detained at Effingham County Jail on counts of aggravated methamphetamine trafficking with intent to deliver, possession of a controlled substance, delivery or possession with intent to deliver MDMA, possession with intent to deliver 100 to 400 grams of methamphetamine, and improper use of registration.

Effingham City Police report that a traffic stop was made at 8:50pm Monday in the 1600 block of West Fayette Avenue. During the course of the traffic stop, a city police K9 positively alerted to the odor of narcotics coming from the vehicle. During a subsequent search of the vehicle, a large amount of suspected methamphetamine was discovered along with digital scales and other suspected controlled substances such as MDMA pills and suboxone strips.

The possession with intent to deliver meth is a Class X Felony, punishable by nine to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $200,000 or the street value of the meth, whichever is greater.

Effingham Police Chief Jason McFarland said he "appreciates the determination and professionalism of all the officers involved in the case, including the Effingham County Sheriff's Department and the Illinois State Police in keeping our community safe."