Suspects Accused of Drug Trafficking in Jonesboro Face Up to Life In Prison

JONESBORO, Ark. — Two suspects are facing a potential sentence of up to life in prison for alleged drug trafficking in Jonesboro.

On March 2, officers with the Jonesboro Police Department responded to 2400 Phillips Drive to contact Raymond Roedell, who was on parole and had a search waiver on file, according to the probable cause affidavit. Roedell was staying in one of the hotel rooms with Lauren Evans.

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Once inside, officers observed a small bag of meth and drug paraphernalia. They took Roedell into custody and began a search. Officers found a small bag of marijuana. However, a much larger bag was located containing 230 grams of marijuana. Two more cellophane bags containing meth were found on Rodedell.

Officers found a makeshift meth bong, the affidavit said, along with digital scales that had meth residue on them.

Authorities also found a black safe. Both suspects stated it belonged to Evans. A K9 gave a positive alert on the safe. Judge David Boling signed a search warrant. Inside, police found a ziplock bag containing approximately 260 grams of methamphetamine.

Laren Lark Evans, 36, and Raymond Lee Roedel, 41, both of Jonesboro, were arrested for Trafficking a Controlled Substance, a Class Y felony; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a Class B felony; and Possession of Sch VI with Purpose to Deliver, a Class C felony.

Alone, Class Y felonies carry a penalty of 10 to 40 years or life in prison. Class B felonies are 5 to 20 years and Class C are 3 to 10 years.

Bail for Evans was set at $25,000 cash or surety, per request from the prosecutor. For Roedel, who is also facing a parole violation, bail was set at $150,000 cash or surety.

The next scheduled court appearances for both are 8:30 a.m. on April 24.

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.