(McCRACKEN COUNTY, Ky.) — A 55-year-old McCracken County man was arrested Tuesday night following a month-long investigation into drug trafficking and a series of thefts across the county, according to the McCracken County Sheriff’s Office.
John Hale of Husbands Road was taken into custody on December 30, 2025, after detectives executed a search warrant at his residence and arrested him during a nearby traffic stop.
Investigation Uncovers Drug Sales, Stolen Property
The investigation began over a month ago when detectives started looking into numerous thefts involving ATVs, UTVs, motor vehicles, and other property throughout McCracken County. Detectives identified Hale as a suspect in several of the thefts and also determined he was involved in selling methamphetamine.
As part of their investigation, detectives conducted multiple controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Hale before obtaining a search warrant for his residence at 1519 Husbands Road.
During the search, detectives found methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and evidence connected to the theft cases.
Second Location Searched; Additional Suspect Sought
Detectives also executed a search warrant at a second location, 1124 Vasseur Avenue in McCracken County, where stolen property had been stored. Authorities are now searching for William Bridges, 40, who lives at that address and is wanted on an outstanding parole violation warrant. Bridges is described as a white male, 5’6″ tall and weighing approximately 210 pounds.
Charges Filed; More Expected
Hale was booked into the McCracken County Regional Jail on charges including three counts of trafficking in methamphetamine (second or subsequent offense) and possession of drug paraphernalia. Additional charges related to the thefts are expected to be filed Wednesday.
Sheriff’s officials said they anticipate more arrests as the investigation continues.
Among the stolen items recovered are a 2015 Polaris four-wheeler and a Kubota side-by-side utility vehicle, both reported stolen in McCracken County in December.
Detective Brandon Little is leading the theft investigation. Anyone with information about stolen property is asked to contact Detective Little at 270-444-4719 or McCracken County Crime Stoppers at 270-443-8355 to remain anonymous.
