Missoula, Montana – Two Montana women have admitted to federal drug charges after authorities accused them of bringing methamphetamine from Washington into Montana for distribution.
According to Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith, Amanda Lynn Montoya, 42, of Corvallis, and Cristina Dallas Kunz, 36, of Helena, each entered guilty pleas in federal court this week in connection with the investigation.
Montoya pleaded guilty on Wednesday to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Kunz entered her guilty plea the following day to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Both women face the same possible penalties under federal law, including 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine, at least five years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided over both hearings. Sentencing for Montoya and Kunz has been scheduled for November 13, 2026. Until then, both defendants remain released under court-ordered conditions.
As with all criminal proceedings, sentencing will be determined after the court considers the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines along with other factors required under federal law.
Investigation led to traffic stop and drug seizure
According to court documents, investigators alleged that Montoya had been distributing methamphetamine in the Missoula area.
On May 28, 2026, law enforcement officers received information that Montoya was returning to Montana after traveling to Washington. Authorities organized a traffic stop to continue their investigation.
Officials said Montoya was driving the vehicle while Kunz was riding in the passenger seat.
During the search of the vehicle, officers recovered approximately two pounds of methamphetamine along with $1,700 in cash.
Investigators also examined Kunz’s cellphone after the stop. According to prosecutors, messages stored on the device described plans involving both women to distribute methamphetamine and detailed their trip to Washington to purchase the illegal drugs before returning to Montana.
Federal prosecutors allege the digital evidence supported the government’s case by documenting conversations about obtaining and distributing methamphetamine.
The case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office.
The investigation was conducted by the Missoula Drug Task Force, whose work led to the seizure of the methamphetamine, the filing of federal charges, and the guilty pleas entered by both defendants. The court will determine each woman’s final sentence during the scheduled hearing later this year.
