Scott County, Missouri – A public tip about a suspicious vehicle at a popular Southeast Missouri campground led to the arrest of three individuals and the discovery of suspected fentanyl, according to the Scott County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident unfolded on December 12, 2025, at General Watkins Campground, where deputies responded after receiving information from a concerned citizen. What began as a routine check quickly escalated into a drug-related investigation resulting in multiple felony charges and arrests.
Suspicious Vehicle Triggers Law Enforcement Response
Sheriff’s deputies said they were alerted to a vehicle that appeared out of place at the campground. Based on the tip, officers made contact with the occupants to determine whether any criminal activity was taking place.
During the initial encounter, deputies identified the individuals inside the vehicle as Christopher Gibson, 42, Isaiah Gibson, 22, and Misty Maze, 25. A records check revealed that all three were wanted on outstanding warrants from Ste. Genevieve County for failure to appear on previous drug-related charges.
Outstanding Warrants Lead to Arrests
Once the warrants were confirmed, deputies took all three individuals into custody without incident. Authorities said the arrests were directly tied to earlier court cases in which the suspects allegedly failed to appear as required.
Following the arrests, deputies conducted further investigation at the scene, which led to more serious developments.
Suspected Fentanyl and Paraphernalia Discovered
According to the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, deputies located suspected fentanyl along with drug paraphernalia during the investigation. The discovery prompted additional charges beyond the existing warrants.
All three individuals now face second-degree drug trafficking charges and possession of a controlled substance, significantly increasing the severity of the case.
Law enforcement officials emphasized that fentanyl remains one of the most dangerous substances encountered during investigations due to its potency and the heightened risk it poses to both the public and first responders.
Additional Charges Filed for False Information
Authorities also stated that two of the three suspects allegedly provided false information to law enforcement during the encounter. As a result, those individuals were charged separately for providing misleading or inaccurate details during the investigation.
Officials did not specify which suspects were charged with providing false information, but confirmed the charges were filed in addition to the drug-related offenses.
Sheriff’s Office Highlights Importance of Public Tips
The Scott County Sheriff’s Office credited the initial tip for helping deputies intervene before the situation escalated further.
“Your information helps us take criminals and dangerous drugs off our streets and keep Scott County safe,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.
Law enforcement officials routinely encourage residents to report suspicious behavior, noting that timely information from the public often plays a critical role in preventing drug distribution and related crimes.
Growing Concerns Around Drug Activity in Rural Areas
Authorities across Missouri have reported increasing drug-related activity in rural locations, including campgrounds and public recreation areas. Officials say these locations are sometimes targeted because they are less monitored and attract transient populations.
Sheriff’s offices across the region continue to stress vigilance, especially in shared public spaces where families, campers, and travelers gather.
What Happens Next in the Case
Following their arrests, Christopher Gibson, Isaiah Gibson, and Misty Maze were transported to the Scott County Jail, where they remain in custody pending court proceedings.
The case will now move through the legal system, with prosecutors expected to address both the outstanding warrants and the newly filed trafficking and possession charges. If convicted, the suspects could face significant prison sentences under Missouri drug laws.
Community Safety Reminder
Law enforcement officials urge residents to continue reporting suspicious vehicles, unusual behavior, or potential criminal activity in public spaces. Tips can often be submitted anonymously and may prevent dangerous substances from reaching the community.
As this case demonstrates, a single call can lead to major enforcement actions and help protect local neighborhoods.
If you live near public parks, campgrounds, or rural areas, authorities recommend staying alert and notifying law enforcement of anything that appears unusual. Share your experiences in the comments below.
