KENNETT, Missouri – A woman from Kennett, Missouri has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after being found guilty of possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and possession of a firearm by a felon. U.S. District Judge Stephen N. Limbaugh Jr. handed down the sentence on Thursday.

Paula J. Laboone, 64, had previously been convicted of possession of controlled substances in Dunklin County, which made her ineligible to possess firearms. Court documents reveal that a search warrant was executed at Laboone’s residence on January 30, 2023. During the search, law enforcement seized numerous bags and baggies containing over two pounds of methamphetamine that were clearly packaged for sale. They also found a Taurus semi-automatic pistol in the bedroom.

Laboone later admitted during an interview that she had been buying and selling methamphetamine for several months. She acknowledged that the firearm in her possession belonged to her, despite being aware that she was prohibited from having it.

The Southeast Missouri Drug Task Force conducted the investigation in this case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Hunter handled the prosecution for the government.

In conclusion, Paula J. Laboone of Kennett, Missouri, has been given a 10-year prison sentence for the possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm by a felon. The conviction stems from a search of Laboone’s residence where law enforcement found over two pounds of methamphetamine and a firearm. The case was investigated by the Southeast Missouri Drug Task Force, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Hunter handled the prosecution.