In rural New Prague, Le Sueur County, an early morning operation carried out by the Cannon River Drug and Violent Offender Task Force (CRDVOTF) led to the arrest of two individuals, Scott Diestler, 72, and James Becker, 59, for their alleged involvement in methamphetamine sales. The arrest occurred after agents conducted a detailed investigation and secured a search warrant for the suspects' residence at 18994 320th Street. On July 1, agents executed the search and apprehended both suspects on site.
According to a statement released by the CRDVOTF, during the search of what appeared to be Becker's bedroom, agents uncovered 54 grams of suspected methamphetamine pre-packed in zip bags, a scale, and unused baggies. In the course of their search, agents also located Diestler in his bedroom, where a further 104 grams of suspected methamphetamine were discovered, along with paraphernalia indicative of drug sales activity, such as a scale and zip bags. Complicating the scene, under Diestler's pillow, agents found two loaded .38 caliber revolvers.
"In December of 2023 Diestler was arrested and charged with being in possession of over 100 grams of methamphetamine in the City of Montgomery," noted CRDVOTF Commander Scott O’Brien. Both Diestler and Becker now face severe drug charges; Diestler's case is aggravated by his current pre-trial release status for prior similar offenses, while Becker has been charged with first-degree controlled substance crimes. As per Commander O'Brien's remarks, the CRDVOTF remains committed to apprehending those involved in the drug trade, highlighting the inherent risks law enforcement officers face in such operations.
Additionally, during the raid, Amy Lillevold was found at the residence and was detained on outstanding felony warrants from Scott and Hennepin counties. Details of Lillevold's involvement, if any, with Diestler and Becker have not been disclosed. While the bust signals a win for the CRDVOTF, the cycle of the methamphetamine trade in Minnesota continues to challenge law enforcement, with repeat offenders like Diestler representing a persistent thorn in the side of their efforts. More information regarding these arrests can be found on the Le Sueur County official website.
