Three arrested as deputies shut down suspected meth house in Herrin

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Ill., (KBSI) — The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office says deputies shut down a suspected drug house in Herrin after executing a court-authorized search warrant Wednesday morning.

Deputies served the warrant at 11:44 a.m. on December 3 at a residence in the 1700 block of West Madison Street. According to the sheriff’s office, the home and its occupants were the focus of an extensive methamphetamine distribution investigation. During the operation, investigators say suspects conducted multiple meth sales to undercover deputies.

Evidence gathered during the search indicated the home was being used to traffic significant quantities of methamphetamine intended for distribution in the local community, the sheriff’s office said.

During the search, deputies recovered methamphetamine, digital scales, packaging materials, packaging waste, U.S. currency and other items commonly associated with drug distribution.

Three people were taken into custody:

Jenny R. Smith

• Delivery of Methamphetamine — Class X Felony
• Methamphetamine Delivery (Proximity to a Church or School) — Class 2 Felony
• Possession of Methamphetamine — Class 1 Felony
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia — Class A Misdemeanor

Christopher J. Rhodes

• Possession of Methamphetamine — Class 3 Felony
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia — Class A Misdemeanor

Mindi A. Kincheloe

• Possession of Methamphetamine — Class 3 Felony
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia — Class A Misdemeanor

All three were transported to the Williamson County Jail.

Sheriff Jeff Diederich praised deputies’ efforts, stating:
“This case is another example of the dedication our deputies bring every day to protecting the people of Williamson County. Clearing this drug house removes a direct threat to the residents of Herrin, and we will continue to aggressively pursue those who choose to profit from poisoning our communities.”

The sheriff’s office thanked Williamson County State’s Attorney Ted Hampson for his assistance.

Anyone with information related to this or other investigations is encouraged to contact the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office at 618-997-6541 or submit a tip through the Williamson County Sheriff’s App, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play. Anonymous tips are accepted.