Missoula Woman Ignores Permanent Trespassing, Screams at Employee

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On April 12, 2024, a Missoula Police Department Officer was at Yoke’s Market when store employees advised of a situation near the store entrance. Upon arrival, the officer observed a female who he had previously permanently trespassed on January 25, 2024, after she had been screaming profanity at Yoke’s customers and employees near the pharmacy.

The individual was identified as 30-year-old Melissa Gravelle. The officer was advised that Gravelle had returned approximately ten times since being permanently trespassed, causing disturbances of the peace within the business.

A manager advised that Gravelle had been extremely close to another manager, yelling and raising her arm as if to punch him. The officer then observed Gravelle still yelling loudly in the parking lot. Gravelle began to enter the fuel station and was still yelling. The officer immediately took physical control of her arm and informed her that she was under arrest.

Gravelle pulled away and attempted to withdraw her arms. While traversing with Gravelle, she openly stated, without attempting to question her, “Why did you put that pipe in my pocket?” Gravelle then repeatedly attempted to accuse law enforcement of placing a pipe in her pocket.

During a search incident to arrest, the officer located a methamphetamine glass pipe in Gravelle’s front right pocket. Then the officer mirandized Gravelle and she declined to provide a statement.

The officer interviewed the manager who said he felt threatened by Gravelle’s actions when she almost struck him. He stated that he had his hands in his pockets when she made the abrupt swing with her right arm and then got close with her physical positioning, almost hitting her head against him.

Gravelle was transported to the Missoula County Detention Facility. She is currently being charged with felony burglary, assault, disorderly conduct, obstructing a peace officer, and criminal possession of drug paraphernalia. On April 16, 2024, Gravelle made her initial appearance in Missoula Justice Court and her bond was set at $5,000.

The information in this article was obtained from sources that are publicly viewable.