Man Fights in a Busy Missoula Intersection, Caught With Meth

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On April 1, 2024, at around 12:15 PM, a Missoula Police Department officer was dispatched to a reported hazard at the intersection of Russell St. and Broadway St. Dispatch advised a male and female stepped in front of the complainant while they were driving, causing them to swerve. Dispatch further advised the two suspects were possibly in an altercation, and provided their physical descriptions.  

An officer responded to the area and was updated by Dispatch that the suspects were near the Poverello Center. The male was identified as 42-year-old Dale Hale. The officer ran a check for wants and warrants and discovered Hale had a warrant out of Missoula County. Another officer arrived to assist and they placed Hale in handcuffs.  

Hale’s backpack was left with the female, per his request, and Hale was searched incident to arrest. According to court documents. Hale’s right front pocket contained a black butane torch and his right front coin pocket contained a small plastic bag with a clear rock and chalk-like substance. The officers knew from their training and experience that the substance resembled methamphetamine.  

READ MORE: Missoula News – Crime Reports 

While removing the bag, Hale stated it was for “personal use.” The officer advised Hale of his Miranda warning and Hale agreed to speak with him. The officer asked Hale how much methamphetamine was being sold for, to which Hale responded that an “eight ball” was costing him $140 dollars.  

Hale was transported to the Missoula County Detention Facility. The officer tested the suspected methamphetamine using the TruNarc narcotics analyzer, which yielded a presumptive positive result. Further analysis shall be conducted at the Montana State Crime Lab. 

Hale is currently being charged with felony criminal possession of dangerous drugs.  

The information in this article was obtained from sources that are publicly viewable.