Lewiston Woman Charged With Felony After Alleged Marijuana Shipment Discovered at FedEx Facility

Lauralee L. Mitchell faces drug charges after package containing over 120 grams of marijuana was intercepted at local shipping center.

Mar. 25, 2026 at 3:54am

A 59-year-old Lewiston, Idaho woman has been charged with a felony after police say a package containing over 120 grams of marijuana was discovered at a local FedEx shipping facility. Lauralee L. Mitchell is accused of attempting to ship the drugs to an individual in Oregon.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to intercept illegal drug shipments, particularly through commercial shipping services. It also raises questions about the penalties and enforcement around personal marijuana use and distribution, which remains a complex legal issue across the United States.

The details

According to court documents, FedEx employees reported a suspicious package after it was damaged and emitted a marijuana odor during handling. Police inspected the package and found multiple baggies and marijuana joints. The total weight of the marijuana was over 120 grams. Investigators later contacted Mitchell, who allegedly confirmed she had shipped the package and initially claimed it only contained candles before admitting she knew sending marijuana was illegal and said she was attempting to help a relative.

  • On March 24, 2026, the suspicious package was discovered at the FedEx facility in Lewiston.
  • On March 25, 2026, Lauralee L. Mitchell was taken into custody and booked into the Nez Perce County Jail.
  • On March 25, 2026, Mitchell is expected to make her initial court appearance.

The players

Lauralee L. Mitchell

A 59-year-old Lewiston, Idaho woman who has been charged with a felony for allegedly shipping a package containing over 120 grams of marijuana.

FedEx

The shipping company whose employees reported a suspicious package that was found to contain marijuana.

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What they’re saying

“We must remain vigilant in intercepting illegal drug shipments to protect our communities.”

— Lewiston Police Department

What’s next

Mitchell is expected to make her initial court appearance on Tuesday afternoon, where a judge will determine if she should be released on bail or remain in custody.

The takeaway

This case underscores the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in monitoring and preventing the illegal distribution of drugs, even through commercial shipping channels. It also highlights the complex legal landscape around marijuana, which remains a Schedule I controlled substance at the federal level despite legalization in many states.