A massive drug bust has resulted in three arrests, according to authorities in Callaway County. The Missouri State Highway Patrol has confirmed the arrest of three individuals who were allegedly found in a vehicle in possession of drugs, the street value of which is estimated at $217,000, including 6 pounds of what is believed to be methamphetamine. All three now face drug charges that could result in serious jail time if they are convicted.
According to MSHP troopers, the vehicle occupied by the three individuals was stopped on Interstate 70 around 5 p.m. on the evening of April 8. It is not clear why officers pulled the vehicle over, but apparently the stop culminated in a search of their vehicle. Police say this is when they discovered the alleged drugs, which prompted the arrest of a 26-year-old, a 29-year-old and a 25-year-old, all from out of state.
All three individuals now face charges, including drug trafficking and possession of paraphernalia by a prior offender. The driver was reportedly also charged with driving without a valid license. All three individuals were remanded to the Callaway County Jail, where they are being held without bond. No trial date has been announced for any of the three, and it is unclear whether any of the accused has retained criminal defense counsel.
Possession of drugs in this amount can net a considerable stay in jail if the individuals are found guilty of the crimes of which they have been accused. However, each individual is entitled to be represented by a criminal defense attorney who will speak for that individual in criminal court. As always, the onus is on Missouri prosecutors to prove each individual’s culpability regarding the alleged crime beyond a reasonable doubt.