The 16th Judicial District Drug Task Force has seized more than 250 pounds of prescription drugs and suspected fentanyl following a major drug-trafficking investigation in Independence County.
According to authorities, the investigation began on January 28, 2026, targeting Susan Martin and Venus Donahue for allegedly trafficking large quantities of controlled substances. With assistance from the Batesville Police Department and the Independence County Sheriff’s Office, investigators executed search warrants at residences connected to both suspects.
During the operation, law enforcement officers recovered significant amounts of prescription drugs along with suspected counterfeit fentanyl pills. Officials say the scale of the seizure represents one of the largest drug recoveries in the county in recent years.
Charges are being sought through the 16th Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, led by Prosecuting Attorney Drew Smith.
Authorities say Venus Donahue faces multiple Class Y felony charges for trafficking Schedule II narcotics, including hydrocodone, oxycodone, Adderall, amphetamine, and carisoprodol, as well as trafficking a Schedule IV narcotic, alprazolam. Additional charges include maintaining a drug premises, a Class C felony.
Susan Martin is expected to be charged with trafficking Schedule II narcotics, including Adderall and OxyContin, both Class Y felonies, along with possession of methamphetamine under two grams, a Class D felony.
Law enforcement officials emphasized that suspected counterfeit fentanyl pills pose a severe public safety risk due to their extreme potency and increased likelihood of overdose. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be filed.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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