Deputy interrupts theft of ammonia

PERRYVILLE, Mo. -- A Perry County deputy apparently interrupted three men trying to make off with stolen anhydrous ammonia Tuesday, police said.

About 3:30 a.m., deputy Brandon Baker attempted to pull over a car driven by James Dean Nesler on Perry County Road 238 near Claryville, Mo., after he spotted it leaving a field without headlights.

A chase ensued, and it was later discovered that a 9mm handgun was thrown from the speeding vehicle, police said.

"We just never know who we're going to run into when we are out on patrol," said Sheriff Gary J. Schaaf, "or what they may be capable of doing. ... Apparently this man at least considered using a handgun at one time prior to our deputy stopping him that evening."

Arrested were Nesler, 32, of Bonne Terre, Mo., Bryan Scott Tedder, 28, of Bonne Terre and Joshua Eli Hurt, 22, of Farmington.

Each is charged with theft of anhydrous ammonia.

Tedder is also charged with possession of a controlled substance and littering, while Nesler faces charges of unlawful use of a weapon, possession of marijuana, unlawful use of drug paraphernalia and several traffic violations.

All are free on bond.