Neillsville Police Department Arrests Two for Possession Charges

Friday, December 5th, 2025 -- 12:01 PM

On Thursday, December 4, 2025, at approximately 10:45 a.m., a Patrol Officer with the Neillsville Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle on Stuve Road near Walkers Road in the Township of Mentor for an equipment violation.

While attempting to stop the vehicle, the vehicle failed to stop and drove into a private driveway. A male passenger, identified as James Cooley, 41, of Chippewa Falls, exited the vehicle and fled on foot. He was later apprehended.

The driver, identified as Michael Strader, 28, of Bloomer, was detained by Officers. Methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia was located on his person. Officers conducted a search of the vehicle and located methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and an illegal short-barreled shotgun.

Following an investigation, Cooley was arrested for a probation violation. Strader was charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of cocaine with intent to deliver (>40 grams), possession of marijuana, misdemeanor bail jumping, and felon in possession of a firearm.

Cooley and Strader were transported to and booked into the Clark County Jail.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.