Greenbush Man Faces Serious Drug Charges After Traffic Stop

A man from Greenbush, Minnesota, pleaded not guilty to multiple drug-related charges in Grand Forks County following a traffic stop on September 6, 2023. Matthew Evan Kujava, 46, faces severe penalties, including up to 20 years in prison if convicted of the most serious charge: Class A felony possession of at least 50 grams of methamphetamine with intent to deliver.

In addition to the felony charge, Kujava is also charged with two Class C felonies: possession of MDMA and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. He received citations for two infractions, including possession of less than half an ounce of marijuana and unlawful possession of marijuana paraphernalia.

The traffic stop occurred on Interstate 29 near mile marker 129 when a state trooper noticed that Kujava’s taillight was not functioning. During the stop, the trooper reported detecting a strong odor of marijuana. According to a declaration of probable cause, Kujava allegedly admitted to having marijuana in the vehicle without a medical marijuana card.

Following the admission, the trooper conducted a search of the vehicle, uncovering a variety of items indicative of drug possession and distribution. The search revealed multiple baggies, two scales with white residue, a bag of suspected methamphetamine weighing 79.77 grams (nearly three ounces), pre-loaded syringes, a jar and bag containing marijuana, a THC vape, and various marijuana paraphernalia. Additionally, an envelope containing $1,869 in cash was found.

When questioned, Kujava reportedly claimed that he did not sell drugs but rather used them personally. He explained that he had purchased the drugs for personal use, gathering funds from friends. He indicated that he paid $700 per ounce due to a recent drug bust in Minnesota, noting that the price had previously been between $300 and $400 per ounce.

Kujava stated that the cash found in his vehicle was intended for a wedding. Along with the money, authorities seized an additional $650 and a cell phone from him. After posting bond on September 10, he remained out of custody but returned to court on December 5, where he entered a not guilty plea.

The next critical hearing in Kujava’s case is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on February 26, 2024. This hearing, termed a final dispositional conference, represents the last opportunity for either party to negotiate a plea agreement. Should Kujava choose to plead guilty at that time, it would be considered an open plea, with the sentencing outcome at the discretion of the presiding judge. It appears that Kujava currently intends to stand trial on the charges.