Drug bust nets nearly $150,000 in crystal meth

Law enforcement seized nearly $150,000 worth of crystal methamphetamine and weapons during a raid Thursday night.

The Maries County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team and the Lake Area Narcotics Enforcement Group served a search warrant on County Road 302 in Vienna Thursday evening.

During the raid, officers found approximately three pounds of crystal meth, which is worth $145,000 on the street. Investigators also found drug paraphernalia and several weapons in the home.

“This was the most crystal meth we have ever recovered at one time,” said Sheriff Chris Heitman.

Starla Dudenhoeffer, 51, and Timothy D. James, 52, were both arrested and charged with felony trafficking a controlled substance.

As of Friday afternoon, both remained in the Maries County Jail on no bond. James is also currently on parole for felony possession of a controlled substance.