McCracken County woman arrested on hydrocodone trafficking charges after monthlong investigation
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
McCRACKEN COUNTY, Ky., (KBSI) — A McCracken County woman was arrested Friday following a monthlong investigation into suspected prescription drug trafficking, according to the McCracken County Sheriff’s Office.
Detectives said they investigated alleged illegal drug activity throughout February involving Kim Watson, 40, of McCracken County.
On Feb. 20, 2026, detectives conducted a controlled purchase of several doses of hydrocodone from Watson in the parking lot of a business on Clint Hill Boulevard in Paducah. Authorities said Watson was taken into custody immediately after the transaction.
A search incident to arrest allegedly uncovered an additional 56 doses of hydrocodone inside Watson’s purse. Investigators said she did not have a valid prescription for the medication.
Watson, who lists an address on Hendron Road, was lodged in the McCracken County Regional Jail.
She is charged with first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance (hydrocodone) and first-degree possession of a controlled substance (hydrocodone).
The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with information about illegal activity is encouraged to contact the McCracken County Sheriff’s Office at 270-444-4719 or submit an anonymous tip through West Kentucky Crime Stoppers at 270-443-TELL.
