The Webster Progress-Times

A months-long investigation has resulted in three felony drug arrests near Maben, with child endangerment charges also filed against the suspects.

Authorities made the arrests Friday evening at two neighboring houses located at Highway 50 and Hatcher Road.

Deputy Tim Mitchell of the Webster County Sheriff's Department, in a release issued Tuesday, stated he had been working with the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics on an investigation that had been ongoing for months.

As a result, officers served search warrants about 5:30 p.m. Friday for Route 2, Box 891 and Route 2, Box 891A, Maben. During the search, officers took about 15 grams of crack cocaine and about $1,800 in cash from the residences as evidence, according to the statement.

Six children ranging in age from 2-9 were in the homes, said Mitchell, and the Department of Human Services was called to the scene. Three were later released into the custody of other family members while the other three remained in DHS custody as of Tuesday, he said.

Arrested on charges of possession of cocaine and child endangerment were Carrie Bean, 46, of Route 2, Box 891A, Maben; her daughter, Jessica Bean, 26, of Route 2, Box 891, Maben; and Frederick O. Randle, 40, of 9161 Randle Road, Prairie.

Mitchell said a man identified as John Strong, 45, of 1593 Sturgis-Maben Road drove up while officers were serving the warrants. He was subsequently charged with possession of marijuana in motor vehicle.

Justice Court Judge Jerry Jones had initial appearances for the suspects Monday, setting bonds for all except Strong at $10,000 each. Strong's bond was set at $630.