A Newport man faces multiple felony charges after an investigation by the 16th Judicial District Drug Task Force (DTF) and the Independence County Sheriff’s Office revealed evidence of illegal drug distribution.
According to authorities, the investigation focused on allegations that Daevon Pruitt was distributing controlled substances in Independence County. Over the course of 2026, DTF agents reportedly conducted several undercover controlled purchases involving Pruitt.
On September 2, the DTF, the Independence County Sheriff’s Office, and the Arkansas State Police executed a search warrant at Pruitt’s residence. Investigators allegedly uncovered several grams of MDMA, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and equipment associated with drug distribution during the search.
Prosecutors with the 16th Judicial District have filed the following charges against Pruitt:
- Three counts of delivery of a controlled substance (Schedule I Narcotic – MDMA), a Class B felony under Arkansas Code § 5-64-426. - Two counts of unauthorized use of another person’s property to facilitate certain crimes, a Class C felony under Arkansas Code § 5-74-105. - One count of possession of a Schedule VI controlled substance (marijuana) with purpose to deliver, a Class C felony under Arkansas Code § 5-64-436. - One count of possession of a Schedule I controlled substance (MDMA) with purpose to deliver, a Class B felony under Arkansas Code § 5-64-424. - Enhancement for habitual offender status under Arkansas Code § 5-4-501.
Officials emphasized their commitment to addressing the issue of dangerous and illegal drugs within the community.
The 16th Judicial District Drug Task Force and the Independence County Sheriff’s Office expressed continued determination to hold accountable those involved in illegal drug distribution.