Two charged with drug distribution in Perry County

PERRYVILLE, Mo. -- Two Perryville men have been arrested on felony drug charges in an ongoing investigation by the Perry County Sheriff's Department.

Clyde Vernon Gowen, 34, was arrested last week according to a news release from Sheriff Gary J. Schaaf, Monday. Gowen was charged with a felony for selling two hydromorphone pills, known by the trade name Dilaudid, for $50 to a department informant, according to a probable-cause statement.

Gowen has a prior conviction for possession of a controlled substance. Gowen could receive five to 15 years in prison.

Mikhiel H. Watkins, 19, was also arrested last week on felony charges for the sale of a controlled substance. Watkins, in association with another person, allegedly sold an informant a quarter-ounce of marijuana mixed with an unidentified "green material" for $45, according to the probable-cause statement. The unknown substance was sent to the Missouri State Highway Patrol Criminal Laboratory for analysis.

Watkins could receive up to seven years in prison, up to a $5,000 fine or a combination of incarceration and a fine.

Mikhiel Watkins

Gowen and Watkins were being held Monday in the Perry County Jail.

Pertinent address:

Perryville, MO