Suspected drug dealer hid psychedelic mushroom operation in 'hidden room'

DAVIESS CO., Ky. (WFIE) – A suspected mushroom dealer in Daviess County was arrested on Halloween.

Thursday. Authorities say they executed a search warrant at the home of Joseph K. VanVactor in the 11600 block of U.S. 431 in Utica.

According to the Daviess County Sheriff's Office, VanVactor was named a suspect after investigators received tips from the community about illegal drug activity.

During a search of his home, officers said they found a psilocybin mushroom growing operation in a hidden room behind a bookshelf.

We're told investigators seized approximately 3 pounds of psilocybin mushrooms, as well as psilocybin mushroom growing paraphernalia, marijuana, digital scales, vacuum sealers and other items.

In addition, three handguns, two rifles and a 12-gauge shotgun were also seized, according to officials.

Joseph Kyle VanVactor, 34, was booked on charges of first-degree wanton endangerment of a police officer (6 counts), second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, first offense (while armed), trafficking in marijuana (while armed ) and arrested for purchasing/possessing drug paraphernalia (while armed).

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