Traffic Stop Turns Drug Bust in Branch County: Coldwater Woman Arrested

(Coldwater) — A woman arrested during a midnight traffic stop in Bronson Township has been formally arraigned in Branch County District Court. Authorities say 39-year-old Tairum Lee-Ann Smith, initially identified as being from Angola and then Quincy, is now listed on court documents as a Coldwater resident. She entered not-guilty pleas Wednesday to multiple felony counts, including delivery and manufacture of methamphetamine, delivery and manufacture of cocaine, heroin or methamphetamine, and felony driving with a suspended or revoked license. Deputies arrested Smith after a police K-9 alerted to narcotics during the traffic stop. A search of her vehicle allegedly turned up more than 242 grams of suspected methamphetamine and 11 bindles of suspected heroin. Smith reportedly told deputies she thought she was driving home to Angola but was going the wrong direction. She also allegedly admitted to buying the meth with the intent to sell it. She’s being held on a $150,000 bond with conditions including no drug use, random testing, and no leaving the state without permission. A probable cause hearing is set for December 2, followed by a preliminary exam on December 9. Because of a prior conviction, Smith could face enhanced penalties if found guilty.