A three-month investigation led authorities to execute four search warrants, taking two persons into custody and one being charged to date.

According to a news release, on March 22, authorities initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by William Lavelle Taylor. A search revealed methamphetamine and a female passenger. Both the suspect and passenger were arrested and transported to the Pettis County Jail.

At approximately the same time, authorities say investigators with the Mid-Missouri Drug Task Force and Pettis County deputies served a search warrant at the Budget Inn motel room alleged to be utilized by Taylor. A search of the room revealed a stolen handgun and U.S. currency believed to be the profit of illegal drug sales.

The two additional search warrants were later served at Taylor’s primary residence at 2343 West Main Street and a vehicle registered to him that was parked at his apartment complex.

Inside the vehicle, investigators say they located over one pound of methamphetamine and additional evidence to indicate the distribution of the substance.

According to court documents, Taylor is charged with felonies for trafficking drugs in the first degree, delivery of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm. Bond is set at $75,000 cash or surety.

Taylor was arraigned on March 24. His next hearing is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 29, at Pettis County Circuit Court.

The other person has not been formally charged at this time.