Fire investigation leads to Scott County methamphetamine arrest

BENTON, Mo. -- Drug charges were filed against a Sikeston woman Wednesday, two days after authorities investigated a suspicious fire at her residence. The Scott County Sheriff's Department, Miner Fire Department and the state fire marshal investigated the Monday house fire near Miner, where they reportedly found items connected to the manufacturing of methamphetamine and other drug use. Tricia G. Newell, 22, has been charged by the Scott County prosecuting attorney's office with attempting to manufacture a controlled substance. Her bond has been set at $25,000. In a news release issued Wednesday, Sheriff Rick Walter said the investigation is ongoing and that he expects more arrests to be made.