Former Cape Girardeau city councilor charged with drug and weapons offenses

A former Cape Girardeau city councilman, Rhettney B. Pierce, 54, has been charged in U.S. District Court with drug and weapons offenses. Pierce is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of unlawful use of a controlled substance and possession of a firearm.

According to the indictment, Pierce is accused of possessing more than 50 grams of methamphetamine between September 26th and 27th. He is also accused of possessing two 9mm handguns while using illegal drugs.

Pierce was arrested on the federal charges Thursday and pleaded not guilty during his court appearance. A motion calling for his detention pending trial details the investigation that led to his arrest.

A confidential informant working with law enforcement alleged that Pierce purchased about four ounces of methamphetamine last month and agreed to buy more. On September 26, the informant and Pierce agreed to meet at a hotel in Cape Girardeau, where Pierce allegedly paid $300 for the drugs. He was arrested immediately after leaving the hotel room, the application states.

A court-authorized search of Pierce's home resulted in the discovery of additional methamphetamine and the two 9mm firearms, the motion continues.

Pierce remains in custody as authorities await further court proceedings. It is important to note that the charges are allegations and Pierce is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

This case is being investigated by the Southeast Missouri Drug Task Force, the Cape Girardeau Sheriff's Office and the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Shelton is prosecuting the case.

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