Kristen Raelyn Purcell, 52, of Hobart, was charged June 12 after police allegedly discovered fentanyl during the booking process following a traffic stop in St. John.

According to court documents, police observed a black Chevrolet traveling on Wicker Avenue near West 96th Place in St. John on June 11. The vehicle was allegedly traveling 45 mph in a 35 mph zone, had a license plate hanging by one screw, and drifted outside its lane of travel. Officers conducted a traffic stop and identified Purcell as the owner of the vehicle.

Police said Purcell appeared nervous during the encounter. An officer reported that she was taking shallow breaths, her chest was shaking, and her hands were trembling. Another officer reportedly observed what appeared to be furtive movements inside the vehicle.

According to court documents, Purcell consented to a search of the vehicle and her person. During the search, police reported finding a cut straw containing a white powdery residue near the vehicle’s center console and a baggie containing a white powdery substance on Purcell. After being advised of her rights, Purcell allegedly admitted the substance was heroin but denied having any additional narcotics on her person.

Police said Purcell was advised that bringing additional narcotics into the jail could result in more serious charges. During the booking process at the Lake County Jail, authorities allegedly discovered 19 additional baggies containing a white powdery substance concealed in her bra. The baggies reportedly fell to the floor during a search.

Investigators reported the substances recovered weighed a combined 12.1 grams and field-tested positive for fentanyl. The residue recovered from the straw also reportedly tested positive for fentanyl.

Court records reviewed by investigators indicated Purcell was previously convicted of possession of paraphernalia in Lake County in April 2021.

Lodged in the Lake County Jail.

Charges filed June 12, 2026:

Possession of a Narcotic Drug (Level 3 Felony)

Possession of a Narcotic Drug (Level 4 Felony)

Possession of Paraphernalia – Prior Conviction (Class A Misdemeanor)

Possession of Paraphernalia – Introducing a Controlled Substance into the Body (Class C Misdemeanor)