On November 9, just before 10 PM, a Yavapai County Sheriff’s deputy observed a green 1994 Nissan Altima travelling east on Highway 71 from the US 93 junction. The vehicle was weaving and drifting over lane markings while also speeding as it entered the community of Congress. The deputy stopped the Nissan in front of a Congress motel and contacted driver Melissa Murray, 40, from Prescott Valley. A female adult passenger was riding with Murray.
During a conversation with Murray, the deputy detected signs and symptoms of drug influence leading to a DUI investigation. Murray remained abnormally nervous, confused regarding travel timeline questions, and unable to clearly identify her passenger. While conducting the DUI investigation involving Murray, the passenger, who was standing outside Murray’s vehicle, suddenly ran off into the darkness. A search for her by assisting deputies was not successful.
During an inventory check of the vehicle prior to towing, the deputy found a purse on the front passenger floorboard apparently belonging to the passenger who fled. When the content of the purse was checked, the deputy found a box containing a plastic bag with well over a quarter pound of methamphetamine.
Murray refused to cooperate throughout DUI questioning and testing and was eventually charged related to involvement with the seized methamphetamine. She was booked at the Camp Verde Detention Center for Possession of Dangerous Drugs for Sale, Transportation of Dangerous Drugs, and Possession of Dangerous Drugs. She remains in-custody on $25,000 bond.
Deputies are confirming the identification of the passenger and will be seeking a warrant for her arrest in the near future.