Southside man arrested on multiple drug and alcohol charges following search of home, business

A Southside man was arrested Thursday after law enforcement officers with the 16th Judicial District Drug Task Force and multiple agencies executed a search warrant at his home and business, uncovering drugs, firearms, counterfeit money and hundreds of containers of alcohol.

According to arrest affidavits, Jessie James Smith, 59, was taken into custody Oct. 9 at his residence on Edger Road. Officers reported finding methamphetamine, marijuana, Suboxone, synthetic marijuana, several firearms and more than $2,300 in cash.

The affidavits state that agents discovered what appeared to be a commercial-style bar and stockroom filled with alcohol, including more than 1,750 cans and bottles of beer and 479 bottles of liquor. Smith allegedly sold alcohol and methamphetamine from the property, which also housed his taxi business.

Investigators said Smith had been the subject of an ongoing investigation after confidential informants purchased alcohol and less than 2 grams of methamphetamine from the location in previous undercover operations. Smith was previously arrested in 2022 for selling alcohol without a license.

During Thursday’s search, officers also reported finding counterfeit bills, packaging materials, drug paraphernalia, and records labeled “Alcohol Sales.” Authorities said they seized five handguns and 10 long guns from the residence.

Smith faces multiple felony and misdemeanor charges, including possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver, maintaining a drug premises, simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms, forgery, and sale of alcohol in a dry county.

He was booked into the Independence County Detention Center with bonds totaling $70,000.

Other agencies involved in Thursday’s search and arrest included the Independence County Sheriff’s Office, the Batesville Police Department, and Arkansas Community Correction.

Jessie James Smith

Image: Independence County Sheriff’s Office