Missoula Man Arrested for Alleged Fentanyl Possession with Intent to Distribute

Nicholas Slead faces felony charges after police find large quantity of fentanyl in motel room

Feb. 3, 2026 at 10:31am

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A 31-year-old man was found unresponsive in a Missoula motel room, with police discovering a significant amount of suspected fentanyl and drug paraphernalia. The man, identified as Nicholas Slead, was arrested and charged with felony criminal possession with intent to distribute and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Why it matters

Fentanyl overdoses have become a major public health crisis across the United States, including in Missoula and other Montana communities. This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat the distribution of dangerous synthetic opioids like fentanyl, which can be lethal even in small doses.

The details

Police were called to the Motel 6 on East Broadway after a delivery person found Slead unresponsive in his room. Through the window, an officer saw white powder and a smoking device near Slead's unconscious body. After waking Slead, the officer searched him and found a large quantity of fentanyl, estimated to have a street value of around $9,600. Slead claimed the drugs were for personal use, but police determined the amount was consistent with intent to distribute.

  • On January 31, 2026, Missoula Police were called to the Motel 6 on East Broadway.
  • Slead was found unresponsive in his motel room on January 31, 2026.

The players

Nicholas Slead

A 31-year-old man who was found unresponsive in a Missoula motel room with a large quantity of suspected fentanyl and drug paraphernalia.

Missoula Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the call at the Motel 6 and arrested Slead on felony drug charges.

Missoula Drug Task Force

The law enforcement unit that provided an estimate of the street value of the fentanyl found in Slead's possession.

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What they’re saying

“He stated he had consumed fentanyl.”

— Nicholas Slead

“Slead stated the amount of fentanyl he had was for personal use, not for distribution, and the price per gram in Seattle was approximately $50 per gram.”

— Nicholas Slead

What’s next

Slead's bond was set at $25,000, and he is currently being held on felony drug charges. The case will proceed through the criminal justice system.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing challenge of combating the fentanyl crisis in Montana communities. It highlights the need for continued vigilance and collaboration between law enforcement, public health officials, and community members to address the root causes and impacts of substance abuse.