OFFICIAL RELEASE OF THE PAWNEE COUNTY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
LARNED, Kan. – Bobbie A. Solko, 43, and Tyler James Smith, 25 formerly of Greeley, Colorado, appeared separately via tele-video in the Pawnee County District Court before Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell for formal First Appearances.
Solko is charged with (1) Attempted Aggravated Battery of a County Law Enforcement Office with a Deadly Weapon; (Alternative Count 1) Felony Interference, to wit: resisting arrest; (2) Possession of Methamphetamine; (3) Conspiracy to Distribute of Counterfeit Currency; (4) Possession of Marijuana (2nd Offense); (5) Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; and (6) Transporting an Open Container.
Smith is charged with (1) Traffic in Contraband in a Correctional Facility, to wit: a controlled substance; (2) Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; (3) Distribution of Counterfeit Currency; (4) Distribution of Counterfeit Currency; (3) Conspiracy to Distribute of Counterfeit Currency; (6) Theft by Deception, less than $1,500; (7) Possession of Marijuana (1st Offense); and (8) Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
The charges stem from an investigation by the Larned Police Department regarding fake $100.00 bills being presented at two Larned retail establishments on May 27, 2026. The Pawnee County Sheriff’s Department assisted in the investigation and later initiated a traffic stop on the suspect’s vehicle. The K9 was deployed during the stop and made indications of possible controlled substances. The couple was arrested at the scene without incident. During the booking process, Solko is alleged to have attempted to gain control of a deputy’s service weapon resulting in the use of physical force by the Sheriff Department staff to take Solko to the floor.
At the First Appearances, Judge Cowell advised the defendants of their charges, the possible penalties if convicted, and their constitutional rights, including their right to counsel. Counsel was appointed and separate Preliminary Hearings have been scheduled.
Solko is being held at the Barton County Jail in lieu of $100,000 bond. Smith is being held at the Pawnee County Jail in lieu of $25,000 bond.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
