Joint drug investigation nets three arrests

A joint drug investigation by the McCracken and Ballard County Sheriff's Offices resulted in the seizure of more than three pounds of crystal methamphetamine, with an estimated street value of over $30,000, along with approximately 40 firearms.

The investigation led to a traffic stop on I-24, and a K-9 alerted to the presence of illegal narcotics in the vehicle.

Methamphetamine and currency believed to be the proceeds from illegal drug sales were allegedly found in the vehicle during a probable cause search.

The driver, 35-year-old Donald “Mark” Hannan, of Wickliffe  and the passenger, Samantha Brugger, of Smithland, were both arrested and taken to the McCracken County Regional Jail on drug trafficking charges, and in addition, Hannan was charged with careless driving.

Court records show that Hannan had a previous methamphetamine trafficking conviction in 2025 in Livingston County.

Also as part of the investigation, a narcotics search warrant was obtained for a home located in the 2800 block of Tabor Road in Wickliffe. Ballard County deputies allegedly found crystal methamphetamine, digital scales, drug paraphernalia, and approximately 40 firearms in the home. Thirty-two-year-old Laken Conyers, of Wickliffe, was taken into custody and lodged in the Ballard County Jail on a firearm-enhanced drug trafficking charge.

PHOTOS: McCracken County Sheriff's Office