Source Google AI
Samotria Matthews, a senior administrator for the Milwaukee County Clerk of Circuit Court, has been charged with maintaining a drug trafficking place as a party to a crime. [1]
The charges follow an August 11, 2026, police raid on her Milwaukee residence. Investigators uncovered a large-scale drug packaging and manufacturing operation operating out of her basement. [1, 2]
Key Details of the Case
- The Raid & Seizures: Law enforcement searched the home following a high-speed police chase involving her husband. Inside the home, police recovered over a kilogram (around three pounds) of fentanyl, multiple packages of cocaine, blenders coated in drug residue, hydraulic presses used to form drug bricks, digital scales, a handgun, and $2,000 in cash.
- Family Members Charged: Her husband, Rodney Matthews (54), and his son, Terrion Matthews (26), were also arrested. Both face heavy felony charges, including possession of cocaine and fentanyl with intent to distribute, maintaining a drug trafficking place, and recklessly endangering safety. [1, 2, 3]
- Current Status: Samotria Matthews has been suspended from her role as assistant chief deputy clerk. Her defense attorneys argue she was unaware of the illicit activities occurring in her basement. However, a court commissioner recently denied a motion to dismiss, ruling there is sufficient evidence to bind her case over for trial. [1, 2, 3]
- Potential Penalties: If convicted, Samotria Matthews faces up to 3.5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Joint arraignments for Samotria and Terrion Matthews are scheduled for September 3, 2026, where both plan to plead not guilty. [1, 2]
I can provide more updates on this case as it develops. Would you like details on the specific criminal histories of the co-defendants, or info on how the county clerk’s office is responding to the suspension?
