Several law enforcement agencies in Independence County recently joined to execute a drug bust at a residence on Boyd Road, according to a press release from the Independence County Sheriff’s Department.
The department executed the search warrant Tuesday, April 9, along with the Batesville Police Department, the Arkansas State Police, and the 16th District Drug Task Force.
The search warrant was the culmination of an investigation into the illegal distribution of large amounts of marijuana, the release notes. Sheriff Stephens said investigators had been receiving information on the operation for several months.
During the search, officers located approximately two pounds of processed marijuana, nine potted marijuana plants in an indoor growing operation, and numerous items related to the manufacture and distribution of marijuana. Some of those items included grow lights, scales, baggies, and more. Numerous drug paraphernalia were found including smoking devices such as “bongs” and “pipes.” Officers also seized $3,471 in cash and a vehicle, according to the release.
Taken into custody were Woodrow Stanley Fowler, Jr., and Halle Mctigue. Sheriff Stephens said each faces several drug-related charges including possessing and manufacturing marijuana, and distribution or possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances near a certain facility. The couple is also facing a charge of maintaining a drug premises, the release noted.
Stephens said the investigative information has been turned over to the prosecuting attorney to file formal charges.
The sheriff said the investigation is ongoing and additional information will be made available when the investigation is concluded.
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