Dexter businessman pleads guilty to selling drugs

BLOOMFIELD, Mo. -- A Dexter businessman was sentenced to seven years in prison, with a suspended execution of the sentence if he successfully completes five years of supervised probation.

James R. Hanner, 35, pleaded guilty Thursday to distribution of a controlled substance before Judge Joe Satterfield in the 35th Judicial District Circuit Court in Bloomfield. Hanner was charged last month with Class B felony distribution of a controlled substance (Xanax) and Class B felony possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver.

Hanner is co-owner of Lucas Florist in Dexter.