One arrested in Boone County meth bust

Boone County deputies arrested a Columbia man Tuesday on suspicion of distributing methamphetamine.

Shortly after midnight, a deputy started following a vehicle that had been reported suspicious in the 5300 block of north O’Neal Road.

According to the deputy, one of the two men inside started throwing things out of the car, including meth, scales, marijuana, prescription pills and a loaded handgun. That gun was later determined to be stolen.

Victor Mendoza, 30, was arrested on suspicion of the following charges: distribution of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of a firearm by a prior felon, receiving stolen property, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana.

His bond has been set at $18,500, excluding bond for the distribution charge, which has not been set.