Eleven people have been arrested — and more arrested are expected — following a multi-week investigation into the theft of heavy equipment, tools, firearms and copper wiring as well as the discovery of various drugs and drug paraphernalia.

Sheriff Robert Dierks said a string of multiple and related incidents began on Aug. 6 when officers were told of an abandoned vehicle near Cherryvale. When deputies arrived at the scene, they discovered two people had broken into the home and were stealing items with the intent to sell them. Arrested were Cindy M. Ford, age 42, and Brad W. Thibeault, age 30.

Dierks said he was recommending the two will be charged with burglary, theft and possession of drug paraphernalia.

A follow-up investigation into the burglary and theft resulted in a search warrant to be executed at Ford’s residence on Aug. 8. Upon investigating the home, deputies found evidence of a clandestine methamphetamine laboratory as well as other drug items. That resulted in additional charges to be filed against Ford and Thibeault, including possession of methamphetamine, attempted manufacture of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Also to be charged with the above-mentioned drug charges is Charles H. Hise, Jr., age 34.

Also on Aug. 8, officers learned of the theft of a Bobcat “skid steer” from a Cherryvale business. During the investigation, William R. McGinnis, age 38, was discovered in possession of the stolen equipment and then fled from deputies. He was eventually taken into custody and will be charged with felony theft.

A follow-up investigation into the skid load theft led investigators to a residence in Wagoner County, Okla., where additional stolen property was located. Two men were taken into custody by Wagoner County authorities, and charges for these two men are expected in Montgomery County.

Dierks said a second skid loader was taken from the Cherryvale area several weeks ago and is still missing. An investigation continues into this theft.

On Aug. 11, a search warrant was executed at the Charles H. Hise, Jr., resident in Independence. Upon investigating the home, deputies found evidence of a clandestine methamphetamine laboratory.

Additional charges will be filed against Hise as well as Amanda A. Hise age 30, Eric B. Clark, age 25, and Geraldine R. McKinney, age 26. All were taken into custody and will face charges of attempted manufacture of methamphetamine, felony possession of drug paraphernalia, misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia, and conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine.

Amanda A. Hise will also face charges of probation violation.

Further investigation led to the arrest of Michelle A. Wantland, age 28, and Jeremiah J. McKenzie, age 25, on Aug. 6. They will be charged with the theft of tools, firearms and copper wiring from several locations in Montgomery County.

“My officers have done a tremendous job and have put in a great deal of time and effort working on these crimes,” said Dierks. “It has been a hectic couple of weeks for us with some long hours, but I’m proud that we have accomplished so much regarding these cases.”

Dierks also said he appreciated the tips from the public regarding the cases

and also extended appreciation to area law enforcement agencies for their assistance.

As in all cases, a person is innocent of charges until proven guilty by a jury or an admission of guilt.

Anyone with information regarding these crimes or any other suspicious behavior should contact the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department Crime Tip Line at 1-800-498-1019 or the regular line at (620) 330-1000. Callers can remain anonymous.