Palmyra Man Arrested After Search Warrant Leads To Drug Trafficking Case

PALMYRA — A Palmyra man was arrested following the execution of a search warrant that authorities say resulted in the seizure of approximately 141 grams of suspected methamphetamine.

Cliff Shepherd, also listed in court documents as Clifton Lester Shepherd, was arrested June 1 after members of the Palmyra Police Department and the East Central Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at a residence at 808 N. Dickerson St. in Palmyra.

The case is filed in Marion County Circuit Court as case No. 26MM-CR00128. Palmyra Police listed the case as No. 26-1971, and the arrest warrant was issued as warrant No. 26-MMARW-14.

According to a probable cause statement filed by Palmyra Police Officer James McKenna, officers executed the search warrant at approximately 10:12 p.m. June 1. During the search, officers reported finding approximately 141 grams of a white, crystal-like substance believed to be methamphetamine.

The probable cause statement said one item located during the search was described as a large, round, crystal-like ball that weighed 75.6 grams. Multiple samples of substances found in separate areas of the house were field tested and indicated the presence of methamphetamine, according to the statement.

Authorities also reported finding nine pieces of methamphetamine-related drug paraphernalia and eight blue pills marked “C1.” According to the probable cause statement, police identified the pills as 1 mg clonazepam, a Schedule IV controlled substance.

After being advised of his Miranda rights and signing a waiver, Shepherd allegedly admitted possessing methamphetamine, according to the probable cause statement. Police said Shepherd told officers he had “only two ounces” and allegedly made statements indicating he was the only person in the area “holding” methamphetamine.

The Palmyra Police Department said Shepherd was transported to the Marion County Jail following the search.

Court records list the arrest warrant charges as trafficking drugs, second degree, and possession of a controlled substance. The police department’s release and probable cause statement also reference allegations of trafficking drugs or attempted trafficking drugs in the first degree, possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Bond was set at $150,000 cash only, according to the arrest warrant. Court filings also show Shepherd’s attorney, Austin Smith of the Missouri State Public Defender’s Office, entered an appearance June 2. A notice filed the same day states a motion for bond reduction was scheduled to be heard June 9 in Marion County Circuit Court.

The Palmyra Police Department said the investigation remains ongoing and thanked the East Central Drug Task Force for its assistance.

Anyone with information regarding illegal drug activity is encouraged to contact the Palmyra Police Department.

The charges are accusations. Shepherd is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.