A Wright County fugitive was taken into custody Monday morning following a coordinated law enforcement operation that led to the discovery of drugs, paraphernalia, and a stolen vehicle.
Chief Snokhous of the Mansfield Police Department executed a search warrant at an undisclosed residence in connection with felony warrants issued for Rodney Trudeau. Upon arrival, officers knocked and loudly announced their presence several times. After receiving no response, entry was made by breaching the front door.
As officers cleared the home, Trudeau attempted to flee by running out the back door. Law enforcement units stationed at the rear of the property intercepted him. After evading one officer, Trudeau collided with another and was taken into custody without further incident.
While securing Trudeau for transport, Chief Snokhous found a blue container in his possession containing a glass smoking pipe and a modified light bulb pipe. Both items field-tested positive for methamphetamine.
Following the arrest, the residence was secured and Officer Sanders remained on-site while Chief Snokhous obtained a narcotics search warrant. During the subsequent search, officers discovered a vehicle in the garage matching the description of one previously driven by Trudeau. The 2025 Toyota Corolla, bearing an Illinois license plate, was confirmed stolen from Hertz Rental in Douglas County, Missouri. Trudeau’s driver’s license was also located in the driver-side door of the vehicle.
Inside the residence, officers found additional narcotics and paraphernalia, including a black box with multiple syringes, a makeup bag containing a scale that tested positive for methamphetamine, and a black pouch filled with a crystal-like substance that also tested positive for methamphetamine. Several small baggies and other items commonly associated with drug distribution were also seized.
Trudeau remains in custody on multiple felony charges, including possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting arrest, and possession of a stolen vehicle. Additional charges may be pending as the investigation continues.
