HARDY, Ky. (September 21, 2025) – Kentucky State Police Post 9 arrested a Pike County man following the discovery of a large quantity of illegal drugs at a residence in the Hardy community.
During the search, troopers seized approximately 23.5 pounds of suspected marijuana, 192 grams of suspected fentanyl, six ounces of psilocybin mushrooms, 35 bottles of 300mg liquid THC, 2,162 THC edible dosage units, drug paraphernalia, 22 firearms, and approximately $1,500 in cash.
James Hardesty, 35, of Hardy, was taken into custody and lodged in the Pike County Detention Center. He is charged with:
- Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, 1st Degree (Fentanyl)
- Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, 2nd Degree (Hallucinogen)
- Trafficking in Marijuana
- Trafficking in a Legend Drug, 1st Offense
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
The Kentucky State Police encourages the public to report suspected drug activity. Tips can be provided to Post 9 by calling (606) 433-7711. Callers may remain anonymous.