Parolee Arrested After Drug Task Force Search Finds Crack Packaged for Delivery

JONESBORO — A Jonesboro parolee was arrested last week after a Drug Task Force investigation led to the discovery of crack cocaine and drug paraphernalia inside his apartment, according to a probable cause affidavit.

According to the affidavit, on Dec. 23, agents with the 2nd Judicial Drug Task Force observed Herman Hampton, 63, riding a motorized scooter on Word Street. Special Agent Chris Jefferson stated he was familiar with Hampton and knew him to be involved in the sale of narcotics. Jefferson also knew Hampton was on felony parole with a search waiver on file.

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Agents followed Hampton and made contact with him in the parking lot of 345 N. Ellis St. Jefferson was joined by parole officer Busby and K-9 officer Scott Martin. Officers advised Hampton of the reason for contact and conducted a search of his residence at Apartment No. 11, according to the affidavit.

During the search, investigators located 18 individually wrapped baggies containing crack cocaine weighing approximately 6.2 grams under a chair in the living room, the affidavit states. Additional individually wrapped baggies containing crack cocaine, weighing approximately 0.7 grams, were found inside Hampton’s bedroom.

A used glass methamphetamine pipe was also located inside the bedroom, according to the affidavit.

Hampton was arrested and charged with possession of methamphetamine or cocaine with the purpose to deliver less than 10 grams and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Bond was set at $75,000 cash or surety. The judge noted Hampton is also being held on a parole violation.

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