2 arrested, 3 children removed during Kennett meth-lab bust

KENNETT, Mo. -- Two adults were arrested and three children were removed Friday from a residence in the 200 block of Jones Street.

At approximately 3 p.m., authorities executed a search warrant, according to the Kennett Police Department. Once inside, officers found what they believed to be active methamphetamine labs inside and outside the residence. Agents with the Bootheel Drug Task Force took custody of the labs.

Officers also found an undisclosed amount of controlled substances and drug paraphernalia, along with a firearm that was seized by agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Police arrested Dwayne Whitley, 37, and Anitra Johnson, 25, both of Kennett. They were taken to the Dunklin County Jail to await filing of formal charges.

Three children -- ages 8, 7 and 3 months -- present during the search were turned over to the Dunklin County Juvenile authorities, who also were on the scene.

Charges being sought include attempt to manufacture a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and three counts of child endangerment.

Pertinent address:

200 block of Jones Street, Kennett, Mo.