Traffic stop in Palmyra leads to drug, firearm seizure and arrest of Keokuk, Iowa, woman

PALMYRA, Mo. — A traffic stop on Thursday led to the seizure of drugs and firearms from a Keokuk, Iowa, woman.

An officer with the Palmyra Police Department conducted a traffic stop at approximately 10:10 a.m. Thursday, May 1, on southbound U.S. Highway 61 for a lane violation. During the stop, the officer observed indicators of possible illegal activity and subsequently initiated a consent search of the vehicle.

The search resulted in the discovery of a loaded firearm and approximately 47 grams of suspected narcotics, including methamphetamine. The driver identified as Karen S. Hoedley, 56, of Keokuk Iowa, was taken into custody without incident.

Hoadley has been charged with:

• Unlawful use of a weapon
• Drug trafficking 2^nd degree
• Endangering the welfare of a child
• Driving while suspended/revoked
• Failure to maintain the right half of the roadway

“This case highlights the importance of proactive policing in keeping our community safe,” Michael Baker, chief of the Palmyra Police Department, said in a press release. “We remain committed to removing illegal drugs and firearms from our city.”

Hoadley is in the Marion County Jail pending formal charges from the Marion County Prosecuting Attorney’s office.