Jonesboro Pair Accused of Running Drug Operation Near Park

JONESBORO, Ark. — Two people were arrested after police said they found cocaine, marijuana, firearms, and cash during a drug raid at a residence across from Miracle League Park.

On Aug. 22, members of the 2nd Judicial Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at 4701 S. Caraway Road, according to a probable cause affidavit. Agents reported seeing Bernard Vanpelt, 48, and Shameika Mitchell, 41, leaving the home before they were detained.

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Inside a bedroom identified as Vanpelt’s, agents located baggies containing suspected cocaine and crack cocaine, along with a torn glove holding five medium-sized bags of a white substance. Investigators also reported finding small tubes containing 14 individually wrapped bags of cocaine weighing about half a gram each.

Authorities said they also recovered a digital scale with residue, a marijuana pipe and grinder, and a glass jar containing two grams of marijuana. A Taurus .38 Special revolver was located under a mattress, and a Diamondback .380-caliber pistol reported stolen out of Jonesboro was found in an unzipped bag, loaded with a round in the chamber.

In the kitchen, agents reported finding pans and spoons testing positive for cocaine residue, along with 15 pounds of baking soda in the freezer. Police said the substance is commonly used to manufacture crack cocaine. Vanpelt was found carrying $1,050 in cash, according to the affidavit.

Both were transported to the Craighead County Detention Center.

Mitchell and Vanpelt are accused of manufacture of cocaine and simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms, both Class Y felonies; possession of cocaine or methamphetamine with intent to deliver, a Class A felony; maintaining a drug premises near a school; possession of firearms by certain persons; and possession of drug paraphernalia, both Class B felonies. They also face charges of theft by receiving, a Class D felony, and misdemeanor drug possession.

Judge David Boling set bail at $250,000 for Mitchell and $500,000 for Vanpelt.

The defendants are next scheduled to appear in court on October 30.

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