Corvallis, Montana – Two Montana women have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in bringing methamphetamine into the state from Washington, following an investigation that uncovered drugs, cash and messages describing plans to distribute the illegal substance.
Amanda Lynn Montoya, 42, of Corvallis, received a 10-year federal prison sentence, followed by five years of supervised release.
Cristina Dallas Kunz, 36, of Helena, was sentenced to seven years in federal prison and will also serve five years of supervised release after completing her sentence.
Both women pleaded guilty in July 2026 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Malloy presided over the proceedings, according to U.S. Attorney Scott Twito.
The sentences followed an investigation into suspected drug trafficking activity involving travel between Washington and Montana.
Traffic stop leads to discovery of methamphetamine and cash
According to court documents, federal prosecutors alleged that Montoya had been distributing methamphetamine in the Missoula area.
During the investigation, law enforcement officers learned that Montoya was returning to Montana from Washington on May 28, 2026.
Authorities arranged a traffic stop to investigate the suspected drug activity further.
Montoya was driving the vehicle when officers stopped it, while Kunz was riding in the passenger seat.
During the encounter, officers searched the vehicle and discovered approximately two pounds of methamphetamine.
They also recovered $1,700 in cash.
The discovery provided investigators with additional evidence as they examined the women’s suspected involvement in bringing drugs into Montana.
Authorities also searched Kunz’s phone and found messages discussing plans between the two women to distribute methamphetamine.
The messages also described arrangements to travel to Washington to purchase the drugs.
According to prosecutors, the evidence connected both women to the drug distribution activity that was under investigation.
Both defendants receive prison terms and supervised release
Following the investigation, Montoya and Kunz each admitted guilt to a federal drug offense in July 2026.
Their cases later moved to sentencing before Judge Malloy.
Montoya received the longer sentence of 10 years in prison, while Kunz was ordered to serve seven years.
Both women will remain under federal supervision for five years after their release from prison.
The Missoula Drug Task Force conducted the investigation that led to the federal case.
