Months-long McCracken meth bust ends in two arrests

A months-long drug investigation ended on Sunday with the arrest of two McCracken County residents.

Detectives said they've received numerous complaints that 50-year-old James "Rusty" Hayden was selling meth. He was additionally wanted on several outstanding warrants.

Detectives said they learned Hayden was staying at an airbnb on North 7th Street on Sunday. That night, detectives said Hayden got into a vehicle, where he was arrested without incident.

During a search of his vehicle, authorities reportedly found 90 grams of crystal methamphetamine and a handgun.

Detectives located 29-year-old Samantha Bennett inside of the apartment. During a search, they allegedly found more meth and $5,000 in cash believed to be proceeds from illegal drug sales.

In addition, detectives said they believe Bennett dumped meth down the sink while Hayden was being arrested.

Hayden was charged with firearm enhanced drug trafficking and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon. Bennett was charged with tampering with physical evidence and complicity to trafficking meth.