Drug arrests made

HAYTI - Two men are in custody after attempting to steal anhydrous ammonia in Pemiscot County.

According to reports, during the early morning hours Saturday, Pemiscot County deputies and the Bootheel Drug Task Force arrested Gary Dane Cunningham, 29, and Michael Christopher Markum, 23, of Paragould, Ark.

The two were attempting to steal anhydrous ammonia from the Peach Orchard Gin located in Pemiscot County. Anhydrous ammonia is a fertilizer but is also a key ingredient used in the manufacturing of methamphetamine.

The Pemiscot County deputies received a call early Saturday morning about a suspicious vehicle being at the gin. Deputies arrived at the scene and caught Markum and Cunningham in the process of stealing the anhydrous ammonia from one of the large tanks located on the premises.

The Bootheel Drug Task Force was called in to assist in the investigation. During the questioning of the suspects, both admitted to task force agents that the purpose of them being at the gin was to steal anhydrous ammonia.

Both men are being held at the Pemiscot County Justice Center on felony warrants charging them for attempted stealing. Bond is set at $10,000 each.