Two Iowa Residents Arrested in Wisconsin on Drug and Theft Charges After Shoplifting Incidents
BRIDGEPORT, Wis. — A routine shoplifting call in Crawford County turned into a major drug bust on Sunday, after deputies discovered meth, marijuana, and other drug-related items in the possession of two Iowa residents.
According to Crawford County Sheriff Dale McCullick, deputies were dispatched to investigate a shoplifting incident in progress. Upon arrival, officers made contact with the two suspects, identified as 38-year-old Molly Schlegel of Postville, Iowa, and 39-year-old Nathan Bantz of Elgin, Iowa.
Drugs and Stolen Items Found
During the investigation, deputies discovered methamphetamine inside Schlegel’s purse, along with hypodermic needles containing meth residue. Bantz was found with marijuana, and a further search of their vehicle uncovered a range of drug-related items.
A K9 unit from the Prairie du Chien Police Department assisted with the search and alerted to controlled substances in the vehicle. Deputies located:
- Meth smoking devices
- Plastic bags
- A digital scale
- Additional stolen merchandise from another store
Authorities confirmed that both suspects were immediately taken into custody.
Charges Against the Suspects
Both individuals now face a long list of charges.
Molly Schlegel has been charged with:
- Possession of methamphetamine
- Possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Retail theft – party to a crime
Nathan Bantz has been charged with:
- Possession of methamphetamine
- Possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Possession of marijuana – 2nd offense
- Operating while under the influence (OWI)
- Resisting an officer
- Retail theft
In addition, Bantz was cited for operating a vehicle with a suspended registration, having open intoxicants in the car, and driving without a valid license.
Ongoing Case Review
Officials noted that the incident highlights the connection between retail theft and drug-related crimes, with suspects often facing both theft and narcotics charges in the same case. The Crawford County Sheriff’s Office said the arrests were made possible through rapid response and coordination with local police and K9 units.
The case remains under investigation, and both suspects are awaiting review by prosecutors. For more updates on Wisconsin public safety and community news, follow ChicagoMusicGuide.com.