Gasconade County Republican

At approximately 6 p.m. Monday, Gasconade County Sheriff’s deputies executed two narcotics-related search warrants obtained by the Lake Area Narcotics Enforcement Group.

These warrants were for neighboring residences, located in an apartment building at 109 E. Colorado, in Bland. SRT members made entry into the two apartments simultaneously where three suspects were detained, according to Capt. Chuck Howard. A search of the apartments revealed a quantity drug paraphernalia, marijuana, and methylenedioxy  methylamphetamine (MDMA), commonly known as “ecstasy.” MDMA is an amphetamine class drug and has similar effects on the “user” as that of methamphetamine. “Ecstasy” or “X” has been more recently highlighted as a “club drug” and is found most often in a homemade tablet form, typically displaying unique markings to that of the manufacturer.

Christopher R. Koepke, 26 of Bland, has been charged with the class B felony alleging distribution of a controlled substance and the class A misdemeanor for unlawful use of drug paraphernalia. A female sharing the residence with Koepke was booked and released pending consideration of similar charges. The male occupant of the second address was also booked and released pending consideration of charges for possession of less than 35 grams of marijuana.

“The Sheriff’s Office and LANEG continue to work diligently to combat illegal drugs in the area,”said Howard.