Drug bust leads to eight arrests

Update: Arrests increase to 10.

On May 20, officials with the Thayer County Sheriff’s Office along with members of the Rural Apprehension Drug Task Force (RAP), and Nebraska State Patrol initiated several drug arrests in Thayer County. These arrests are the result of a two year investigation regarding the distribution of illegal narcotics in Thayer County. Nine individuals living in Hebron and one from Beatrice were arrested Monday on charges of distribution of controlled substances including hydrocodone, oxycodone and amphetamines. All are class 1D felonies.

Individuals from Hebron and their charges include: Antonio Ayala, 50, one count of distribution of a controlled substance, specifically hydrocodone; Ralph Ekis, 53, two counts of distribution (hydrocodone); Misty Goff, 20, two counts of distribution (oxycodone); Patricia Hooks, 51, three counts of distribution (methadone and hydrocodone); David Powers, 52, two counts of distribution (oxycodone); Sarah Rexroad, 28, three counts of distribution and one count of aiding and abetting in the distribution of controlled substances; Jackie Rogers, 62, one count of distribution and one count of aiding and abetting in the distribution of controlled substances (hydrocodone); Mark Stepp, 51, one count of aiding and abetting the distribution of controlled substances; David Wilson, 28, two counts of distribution (amphetamines).

Christopher Brungardt, 20, of Beatrice, was also arrested Monday and charged with delivery with intent to distribute controlled substances, a class 3 felony.

Arrest bonds are currently being set. Arraignments will most likely be scheduled in county court May 30.