Cape Girardeau city councilor announces resignation after being arrested on drug and weapons charges

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KFVS) – A Cape Girardeau city councilor has announced his resignation after a drug investigation in Cape Girardeau County led to his arrest on drug and weapons charges.

Rhettney “Rhett” Pierce, 54, is charged with drug trafficking and two counts of illegal possession of a firearm.

On Saturday, September 28, Pierce announced his resignation from the Cape Girardeau City Council.

“In light of the recent allegations, I believe that resigning from my position on the City Council would be in the best interest of my constituents and the City of Cape Girardeau. Thank you all for your support, and I would appreciate it if you would withhold judgment and let the justice system act,” Pierce said.

His first court appearance is scheduled for Monday, September 30 afternoon.

According to court documents filed in the case, Pierce is accused of going to an unnamed hotel on Thursday, September 26, and purchasing methamphetamine. Police arrested Pierce immediately after he left the hotel room and said they found more than 122 grams of methamphetamine in his possession.

According to the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s Office, Pierce admitted during an interview to buying and selling methamphetamine. They say he also admitted to being a habitual methamphetamine user.

Those documents also show that a search of Pierce’s home turned up more methamphetamine and two 9mm handguns.

Cape Girardeau voters elected Pierce in April to serve on the city council representing Ward 5.

When asked about Pierce, Cape Girardeau Mayor Stacy Kinder said, “I am simply not in a position to comment at this time on matters regarding Mr. Pierce. »

His bail was set at $50,000 cash only. According to the Cape Girardeau County Jail, he was released on bond Friday.

We will have more information on this developing story throughout the day.