Drug Task Force Announces Arrest Of Newport Man On Numerous Controlled Substance Charges
September 4, 2026
During 2026, the 16th Judicial District Drug Task Force (DTF), in conjunction with the Independence County Sheriff’s Office, conducted an investigation into allegations that Daevon Pruitt was distributing illegal controlled substances in Independence County, Arkansas. Throughout the investigation, agents conducted multiple undercover controlled purchases from Pruitt.
On September 2, 2026, members of the 16th Judicial District Drug Task Force, the Independence County Sheriff’s Office, and the Arkansas State Police executed a search warrant at Pruitt’s residence in Independence County. During the search, investigators reportedly located multiple grams of MDMA, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and equipment commonly used in the distribution of illegal narcotics.
The following charges have been presented to the 16th Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney and subsequently filed against Pruitt:
Three Counts of Delivery of a Controlled Substance (Schedule I Narcotic – MDMA), a Class B Felony, in violation of A.C.A. § 5-64-426
Two Counts of Unauthorized Use of Another Person’s Property to Facilitate Certain Crimes, a Class C Felony, in violation of A.C.A. § 5-74-105
One Count of Possession of a Schedule VI Controlled Substance with Purpose to Deliver, a Class C Felony, in violation of A.C.A. § 5-64-436
One Count of Possession of a Schedule I or I Controlled Substance (MDMA), excluding methamphetamine, fentanyl, heroin, or cocaine, with Purpose to Deliver, a Class B Felony, in violation of A.C.A. § 5-64-424
Enhancement: Habitual Offender, pursuant to A.C.A. § 5-4-501
The 16th Drug Task Force and the Independence County Sheriff’s Office are committed to aggressively investigating and holding accountable those who distribute dangerous and illegal drugs into our neighborhoods.
