Sedalia, MO — Authorities in Sedalia, MO are actively searching for a 66-year-old fugitive following a sweeping drug operation that dismantled what investigators describe as a large-scale cocaine trafficking ring.
The multi-agency crackdown resulted in eight arrests, the seizure of more than 13 pounds of narcotics, and the discovery of several weapons and drug-manufacturing tools.
A Months-Long Investigation Uncovers Major Drug Pipeline
The Sedalia Police Department’s Crime Resolution Unit revealed that the probe began in August, when officers initiated a series of undercover narcotics buys. These controlled purchases helped investigators identify a network of dealers operating dangerously close to protected locations, including schools, parks, and residential neighborhoods—areas where enhanced penalties apply under Missouri law.
According to detectives, 31-year-old Sarandon A. Staten emerged as the operation’s primary supplier. Police say Staten transported large volumes of cocaine into Pettis County, where it was later processed into crack cocaine and distributed throughout the region.
Coordinated Raids Target Multiple Drug Houses
On Tuesday, Nov. 25, authorities executed search warrants at three suspected drug houses, culminating in a large seizure of illegal drugs, weapons, and equipment. Confiscated items included:
- Over half a pound of cocaine
- Nearly 1 ounce of crack cocaine
- 13 pounds of marijuana
- Multiple illegally owned firearms and ammunition
- Cash believed to be drug proceeds
- Equipment used for manufacturing narcotics
Officials noted that the scale of the seized materials points to a highly active operation supplying multiple distributors across the area, as per KCTV.
Eight Suspects Now Facing Major Charges
All eight individuals taken into custody face serious felony charges, with bonds set between $25,000 and $150,000.
Primary Suspects
- Sarandon A. Staten, 31 — Trafficking, manufacturing, possession, and weapons charges
- Brad A. Cole, 40 — Armed criminal action, evidence tampering, possession, distribution, and weapons charges
- Willie B. Carter Sr., 75 — Manufacturing charges
Additional Arrests
- Jeffrey A. Boggs, 68 — 3 counts of distribution in a protected location
- Tiffany S. Boggs, 55 — 1 count of distribution in a protected location
- Chiron B. Webb, 34 — 1 count of distribution in a protected location
- Kelvin Q. Newbill, 62 — 2 counts of distribution in a protected location
- George C. Smith, 61 — 1 protected-location distribution charge and 3 additional distribution counts
- George Johnson, 40 — 1 count of distribution in a protected location
One Suspect Still on the Run
Despite the arrests, authorities confirmed that Dale P. Boggs, 66, remains at large as of Wednesday, Nov. 26. A $25,000 bond has already been set in anticipation of his capture. Investigators also announced efforts to seize two vehicles owned by Jeffrey and Tiffany Boggs, which were reportedly used to transport narcotics.
Community Impact and Ongoing Legal Action
Law enforcement officials emphasized that the takedown specifically targeted drug activity in areas where children and families are present.
“These arrests reflect our commitment to stopping narcotics distribution and protecting residents in protected zones,” a Sedalia Police spokesperson said.
Prosecutors confirmed that Staten and Cole were formally charged on Wednesday, and additional charges for other suspects are expected as the investigation continues.
The Sedalia Police Department extended thanks to the Pettis County Sheriff’s Office, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Mid-Missouri Drug Task Force for their assistance in the operation.
What Do You Think About This Major Drug Bust?
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