A Batesville man is facing up to 40 years in prison after being charged with the delivery of methamphetamine. Corey M. Minchew, 39, was arrested Wednesday and is accused of selling the drug to an undercover informant, according to an affidavit from the 16th Judicial District Drug Task Force.
Minchew is charged with delivery of a controlled substance—crystal methamphetamine—amounting to more than 10 grams but less than 200 grams. Under Arkansas law, this is classified as a Class Y felony, the most serious level of felony in the state. If convicted, Minchew could face a prison term between 10 and 40 years in the Arkansas Division of Correction, along with a potential fine of up to $25,000.
In addition, Minchew is charged as a habitual offender due to having four or more prior felony convictions. Under Arkansas law, habitual offenders are subject to enhanced sentencing guidelines that could increase the length of their imprisonment.
The affidavit states that Drug Task Force agents began investigating Minchew in 2026 after receiving credible information suggesting he was distributing meth from a residence on Brown Lane in Batesville. To gather evidence, agents utilized a confidential informant to conduct a monitored purchase of crystal meth using funds from the task force. The transaction reportedly took place in Independence County and was documented on both audio and video. Agents searched the informant before and after the controlled buy to ensure the integrity of the evidence.
The drugs involved in the case remain with the task force and are slated for analysis at the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory.
Minchew’s bond has been set at $40,000. He is scheduled to make his first court appearance on November 10.
The investigation continues as authorities process evidence and prepare for court proceedings.