A months-long drug and alcohol enforcement operation in Independence County has led to multiple felony charges following the arrest of Jessie James Smith, who is accused of distributing methamphetamine and selling alcohol without a license.
The investigation, which spanned more than eight months, was conducted by the 16th Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney’s Drug Task Force in partnership with the Independence County Sheriff’s Office. Officials say it focused on illegal drug distribution and unlicensed alcohol sales within the county.
Following extensive surveillance and several controlled purchases, law enforcement obtained enough evidence to execute a search warrant on October 9, 2025, at Smith’s residence in rural Independence County.
During the search, investigators seized:
4.7 grams of methamphetamine
43.6 grams of marijuana
3.1 grams of K2/Spice
3.5 grams of Suboxone pills
Approximately 1,758 cans of beer and 479 bottles of liquor
15 firearms
Authorities say the seized substances and weapons indicate a substantial illegal operation combining narcotics trafficking and unlicensed alcohol distribution.
As a result of the investigation, the 16th Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney’s Office is filing multiple charges, including:
Delivery of methamphetamine less than two grams (Class C Felony)
Two counts of maintaining a drug premises (Class C Felony)
Two counts of selling alcohol without a license (Class A Misdemeanor)
Possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver (Class B Felony)
Possession of marijuana with intent to deliver greater than 14 grams (Class D Felony)
Possession of Suboxone with intent to deliver (Class C Felony)
Possession of K2 with intent to deliver (Class A Misdemeanor)
Simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms (Class Y Felony)
Possession of drug paraphernalia (Class A Misdemeanor)
Forgery in the first degree — possession of counterfeit money (Class B Felony)
Prosecuting Attorney Drew E. Smith praised the cooperation among law enforcement agencies, saying:
“This investigation represents the collective approach that safeguards our communities. It demonstrates that when governmental agencies cooperate effectively, we can achieve remarkable success in disrupting crime within our jurisdiction.”
The investigation highlights the ongoing effort by local and district agencies to reduce illegal drug activity and prevent the unlicensed sale of alcohol throughout North Central Arkansas.
The Independence County Sheriff’s Office and the 16th Judicial District Drug Task Force continue to investigate related cases and urge residents to report suspicious activity.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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