An Indianola woman is facing felony drug charges following a narcotics investigation and traffic stop in Warren County.

According to court records, 51-year-old Michael Dawn Dale of Indianola was under surveillance by law enforcement on February 26th as part of a narcotics investigation. Authorities observed Dale’s vehicle travel south into Eagleville, Missouri, where it reportedly stopped at a dispensary before returning north into Warren County.

Investigators contacted a state trooper who later conducted a traffic stop on Dale’s vehicle for a speed violation near South 1st Street and East 1st Avenue in Indianola. A K9 unit was called to the scene and alerted to the presence of a controlled substance in the vehicle. A probable cause search of the vehicle allegedly located approximately three ounces of marijuana, two THC vape cartridges, and marijuana edibles. Dale was then transported to the Indianola Police Department for an interview.

During questioning, investigators say Dale stated a friend had given her money to travel to Missouri and purchase marijuana for them. Authorities also report reviewing messages on Dale’s phone that allegedly showed her discussing marijuana and THC product prices and weights, and receiving $175 through Cash App related to the purchase. Court documents state the marijuana seized weighed more than 42.5 grams and did not have a required Iowa drug tax stamp.

Dale has been charged with Failure to Affix Drug Stamp and Controlled Substance Violation Conspiracy to Deliver Marijuana, both Class D felonies under Iowa law. The case remains ongoing in Warren County District Court.