McCracken County man arrested in drug trafficking, theft investigation; suspect still sought
FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
McCRACKEN COUNTY, Ky., (KBSI) — A McCracken County man was arrested Tuesday night as part of an ongoing investigation into drug trafficking and a series of thefts involving vehicles and other property, authorities said.
The McCracken County Sheriff’s Office said detectives have spent the past month investigating multiple thefts of ATVs, UTVs, motor vehicles and other items reported stolen throughout the county. Investigators identified John H. Hale, 55, of Husbands Road, as a suspect in several of the thefts.
Detectives also determined Hale was involved in the sale of methamphetamine and conducted multiple controlled purchases as part of the investigation, officials said.
On Dec. 30, 2025, detectives executed a search warrant at Hale’s residence at 1519 Husbands Road.
Hale was arrested nearby during a traffic stop while the warrant was being served. During the search, investigators located methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and evidence connected to the theft cases.
A second search warrant was executed at 1124 Vasseur Ave., where investigators said stolen property had been stored. Authorities are actively searching for William Bridges, who resides at that address and is wanted on an outstanding parole violation warrant.
Hale was lodged in the McCracken County Regional Jail on drug trafficking charges. Additional charges related to the theft investigations are expected to be filed, and detectives said further arrests are anticipated as the investigation continues.
Hale is charged with three counts of trafficking in methamphetamine, second or subsequent offense, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Bridges is described as a white male, 40, about 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing approximately 210 pounds. He is wanted on a parole violation.
Detective Brandon Little is the lead investigator. Anyone with information about the stolen property or Bridges’ whereabouts is urged to contact the McCracken County Sheriff’s Office at 270-444-4719 or McCracken County Crime Stoppers at 270-443-8355 to remain anonymous.
