Police bust alleged Bootheel meth ring

CARUTHERSVILLE, Mo. -- Police have arrested four people and seized thousands of dollars along with drugs and weapons.

The investigation began about six months ago, according to a news release issued by the Pemiscot County Sheriff's Department, and ultimately led to the discovery of a suspected large methamphetamine trafficking ring operating in Missouri and Arkansas.

Officers have since seized six pounds of methamphetamine, $130,000 in cash, 10 weapons and $25,000 in various other kinds of property.

Arrested in Dunklin County were Dennis Wheeler, 51, of Beaufort, Mo., and Ron C. Jefferson, 36, of Blytheville, Ark. Both are charged with trafficking methamphetamine.

Also arrested in Dunklin County was Ward Harden, 48, of Kennett, Mo. He is charged with trafficking. Manuel Castaneda, 30, of Blytheville was arrested and charged in Blytheville. He is being held on charges of trafficking meth.