3 could face drug charges in Texas County

An investigation in Texas County led to the seizure of controlled substances and a gun over the weekend. According to the Texas County Sheriff’s Office, deputies who were patrolling Highway 63, noticed a vehicle that was parked and stopped to see if they needed assistance. While the deputies were speaking to the people in the car they saw illegal substances in plain view. When they searched the car, they discovered drug paraphernalia and substances believed to be Fentanyl and Methamphetamine, and a loaded pistol. At the scene, 31-year-old Andrew Lewis, and 39-year-old Melissa Neal of Licking, and 35-year-old Stephanie Hawkins of Salem were taken into custody. The Sheriff’s Office is seeking charges of distribution of a controlled substance, possession of controlled substance, and illegal possession of a firearm.