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Undercover probe leads to drug arrest and felony charges in Independence County

handcuffs-male-2024
handcuffs-male-2024

An Independence County man is facing multiple felony charges after a months-long multi-agency investigation into illegal drug distribution in the area, authorities said.

According to a release, Daevon Jamal Pruitt, 29, was charged following a Sept. 2 search warrant execution at his residence by members of the 16th Judicial District Drug Task Force, the Independence County Sheriff’s Office, and the Arkansas State Police.

Investigators said the operation stemmed from a 2026 investigation into allegations that Pruitt was distributing controlled substances in Independence County. During the probe, undercover agents conducted multiple controlled purchases from Pruitt.

During the search of his home, law enforcement officers reportedly located multiple grams of MDMA, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and equipment commonly used in narcotics distribution.

Pruitt has been charged with four Class B felonies, including three counts of delivery of a Schedule I controlled substance (MDMA) and one count of possession of MDMA with the purpose to deliver. He also faces three Class C felonies: two counts of unauthorized use of another person’s property to facilitate a crime and one count of possession of a Schedule VI controlled substance with the purpose to deliver.

Prosecutors have also filed a habitual offender enhancement against Pruitt under state law.

“The 16th Drug Task Force and the Independence County Sheriff’s Office are committed to aggressively investigating and holding accountable those who distribute dangerous and illegal drugs in our neighborhoods,” 16th Drug Task Force Commander Johnny Byler said in the release.

Pruitt’s bond has been set at $20,000. He is scheduled to make his first court appearance on Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2026.

Daevon Jamal Pruitt (Image: Independence County Sheriff’s Office)

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