KENTUCKY — Two Middlesboro residents were arrested Tuesday on multiple drug trafficking charges following the execution of a search warrant in Pineville, according to authorities.
The Bell County Sheriff’s Department said Billie Hale, 50, and Amanda Turner, 46, were charged with trafficking a controlled substance (heroin) within 1,000 feet of a school, trafficking in a controlled substance involving two grams or more of methamphetamine, trafficking in marijuana, possession of a controlled substance, and buying or possessing drug paraphernalia. Hale was also charged with second-degree disorderly conduct.
According to the sheriff’s department, deputies executed a search warrant Tuesday, Feb. 3, at an apartment in Pineville as part of an investigation into suspected drug trafficking at the residence.
During the search, officers located multiple baggies, digital scales, and substances believed to be marijuana, methamphetamine, and heroin. Deputies also found unknown pills and cash that investigators believe were associated with the sale of illegal drugs.
The sheriff’s department said the suspected substances were discovered after K-9 Steve and K-9 Deputy Keith Fuson conducted an open-air search. Investigators noted that, based on the training and experience of Detective Hunter Luttrell, the substances appeared to be packaged for distribution.
Authorities also stated that several schools were located within 1,000 feet of the residence, including Bell-Whitley Schools, Pineville Preschool, and Pineville Independent School.
Hale and Turner, both of Middlesboro, were lodged in the Bell County Detention Center.
