Three arrested in investigation

Illegal prescription drug use

BLOOMFIELD -- Three Stoddard County residents were arrested as part of an ongoing investigation into an effort to combat rising illegal prescription drug use in Stoddard County.

According to a Friday news release from Stoddard County Sheriff Carl Hefner, Hershell M. Kennedy, 44, of Puxico, was arrested on felony charges of intent to distribute a controlled substance (hydrocodone), two counts of possession of a controlled substance (hydrocodone), possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and two misdemeanor counts of possession of drug paraphernalia.

After a lengthy investigation by the sheriff's department, the SEMO Drug Task Force and Marshal Johnny Clark of the Puxico Police Department, it has been alleged that Kennedy was selling prescription drugs illegally from his business in Puxico.

Arrest warrants were executed and as of press time Kennedy remained in the Stoddard County Jail under a $175,000 cash-only bond.

Hefner also reported the arrest of Bradley S. Smith of Dexter on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance (fentantyl), felony possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, felony distribution of a controlled substance and misdemeanor possession of a controlled substance. Smith remained in the Stoddard County Jail as of press time with a $75,000 cash-only bond.

Also charged in connection with felony distribution of a controlled substance (fentantyl) was Ronda R. Hurley of Dexter.

Anyone with information about any of the cases is urged to contact the Stoddard County Sheriff's Department at 573-568-4654.