Two men were arrested after a high‑risk pursuit that began in Salem and ended with a Tactical Vehicle Intervention in Licking, according to a probable cause affidavit filed October 24. Salem Patrolman #117 attempted a traffic stop after observing a violation, but the driver failed to yield, leading officers on a pursuit at high speeds and into oncoming traffic, forcing other motorists to swerve to avoid collisions.
The chase continued through Licking, where an officer deployed a tire deflation device. A Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper briefly took primary and executed a TVI maneuver, sending the vehicle off the roadway. Officers took the driver, Jeremy McAfee, and passenger Robert Bell into custody.
A search of the vehicle reportedly uncovered 5,000 mg of suspected fentanyl capsules and 36 grams of suspected methamphetamine. Both men were transported to the Dent County Jail, and prosecutors filed felony complaints.
Judge Kelsaw issued no bond for McAfee on charges including aggravated fleeing under Valentine’s Law, first‑degree drug trafficking, possession of a controlled substance, and driving while revoked. Bell received $100,000 cash/surety on a trafficking charge and is also wanted on five active felony warrants with no bond.
The case involved coordinated efforts from the Dent and Texas County Sheriff’s Offices, Licking Police Department, and Missouri State Highway Patrol Troops I and G.
