Multi-Agency Operation in Howell County Leads to Nine Federal Arrests

On November 3, 2025, Howell County Deputies and I joined the United States Marshals Service, South Central Drug Task Force, Operation Relentless Pursuit Task Force, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and West Plains Police Department in concluding a multi-year investigation by locating and arresting nine individuals on two separate federal indictments.

 

The indictments are related to a drug trafficking organization alleged to be distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl in and around Howell County, Missouri. As a result of these investigations, multiple pounds of methamphetamine, raw fentanyl, and more than one thousand fentanyl capsules were seized.

 

Indictment #1

According to a nine-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Springfield, Missouri, eight individuals were charged with various charges related to narcotics distribution. Today, the indictment was unsealed and made public following the arrests of the defendants.

 

Count One of the indictment alleges that the following individuals participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl:

 Monica Kesling, 54, of West Plains

 Bradley Hale, 50, of West Plains

 Jeffrey Sanders, 42, of West Plains

 Kristy Norton, 41, of West Plains

 Frank Roberts, 62, of West Plains

 Jody Cates, 43, of West Plains

 Randy Sisco, 46, of Mountain View

 Ronnie Waller, of St. Louis ( Not Pictured )

 

In addition to Count One, the indictment includes eight additional counts charging various other drug-related crimes against several of the above-named defendants.

 

Indictment #2

According to a one-count indictment also returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield, Missouri, Brian K. Smith, 54, of Summersville, is charged with knowingly and intentionally possessing, with the intent to distribute, 50 grams or more of

methamphetamine.

 

None of this could have been possible without the long-term, concentrated efforts of the South-Central Missouri Drug Task Force. Their dedication and thorough investigative work are to be commended. With the recent assignment of a Howell County Deputy to this task force, I am optimistic we will continue to see more successful outcomes like this, holding those involved in the drug trade in Howell County accountable for their

actions.

 

The coordinated effort to locate, surveil, and arrest these individuals demonstrates the strong working relationships our office maintains with our partner agencies. I would like

to thank the United States Marshals Service, Operation Relentless Pursuit Task Force, Missouri State Highway Patrol, South-Central Drug Task Force, and West Plains Police Department for their invaluable assistance in this operation.

 

Sheriff Matt Roberts

 

Note: A charge is merely an accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.