On Jan. 28, Missouri authorities arrested 15 people in Cooper County following a lengthy drug probe. They are also seeking another 10 people in the case.
According to local media reports, officers from the Boonville Police Department and the MUSTANG Drug Task Force concluded a long-term investigation into the distribution of cocaine, heroin, marijuana, methamphetamine and prescription narcotics in the county. As a result, 25 people were indicted.
Eight of the defendants, who range from 24 to 60 in age, are from Boonville. Another five defendants, who range from 25 to 39 in age, are residents of New Franklin. The remaining two defendants, ages 32 and 57, hail from Franklin and Glasgow, respectively.
Seven of the defendants have been charged with distribution of a controlled substance in a protected area, which is defined as being near a school, school bus, park or public housing property. They were each booked into jail on bonds of $75,000. Five of the defendants have been charged with delivery of a controlled substance and delivery of 35 grams or less of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid. They were booked into jail on bonds of $10,000 each.
Two of the defendants have been charged with delivery of 35 grams or less of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid. They were booked into jail on bonds of $10,000 and $5,000. Finally, one defendant has been charged with two counts of delivery of 35 grams or less of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid. That individual was booked into jail on a bond of $5,000.
People who are facing drug charges might be able to fight the allegations with the help of a criminal defense attorney. For example, in some cases, an attorney might be able to cast doubt on the prosecution’s evidence, which could cause the charges to be dismissed. Alternatively, legal counsel may advise negotiating a plea deal, which could lead to reduced penalties.