BUTTE, Mont. — A Butte man accused of orchestrating a fatal fentanyl overdose from behind bars made his first appearance in district court on Thursday, facing serious charges related to his alleged involvement in a drug distribution scheme.
William James Jobe, 39, was arraigned on the felony charge of criminal distribution of dangerous drugs, by accountability, resulting in death. Jobe entered a not guilty plea to the charge, which stems from an overdose that occurred in late October at a residence on Pearl Street in Butte.
Prosecutors claim that while incarcerated in the Butte jail, Jobe coordinated with several co-defendants to arrange the purchase and distribution of fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid. Jobe allegedly used phone cards from other inmates to facilitate the transactions, and prosecutors noted that all of his phone calls were recorded.
The fentanyl allegedly purchased through Jobe’s coordination was later used by a victim who fatally overdosed. Authorities say the transaction was part of a broader scheme involving several individuals connected to the case.
Jobe remains in custody with a bond set at $250,000. In addition to the drug distribution charge, Jobe faces a separate Department of Corrections hold.
During the court proceeding, District Court Judge Frank Joseph addressed Jobe directly, reminding him that all conversations made from the jail are recorded. “No more conniving on the phone,” Judge Joseph cautioned.
Jobe’s wife, Tawnee Salminen, has been charged with the same felony of criminal distribution of dangerous drugs resulting in death. Another individual, Makayla Clift, also faces charges in connection with the fatal overdose, with prosecutors accusing her of criminal distribution of dangerous drugs resulting in death.
Christopher Garofalo, who is alleged to have possessed the fentanyl in his vehicle prior to the overdose, faces three counts of criminal possession with intent to distribute. Prosecutors indicated that additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
The case highlights growing concerns over the impact of fentanyl in communities across Montana and the role that inmates are allegedly playing in the trafficking of the deadly drug. As the legal proceedings unfold, authorities are continuing to investigate the full scope of the operation and the individuals involved.
