MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Troop B Headquarters - 308 Pine Crest Drive - Macon, MO 63552


NEWS RELEASE

For further information please contact: Sergeant Brent J. Bernhardt
(660) 385-2132
B11112
November 15, 2011

EMPHASIS: Felony Drug Arrest In Macon County


On November 12, 2011, at approximately 7:44 p.m., an eastbound 2011 Mazda was stopped by a Missouri state trooper for a traffic violation, on U.S. Highway 36, near the Salt River Bridge, in Macon County. As the trooper made contact with the driver, who was identified as Michael L. Ricksgers, 39, of Canby, Oregon, a strong smell of marijuana was detected emanating from the inside of the vehicle. During a probable cause search of the vehicle, approximately 10 pounds of marijuana, along with Oxycodone pills and drug paraphernalia were located. Ricksgers was arrested for felony possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, felony possession of a controlled substance, unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, and speed (78 in a 65 mph zone). He was transported to the Macon County Jail where he was held on a $46,000 cash bond.
The charges for which Ricksgers was arrested are mere accusations and not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the above charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

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