Woman claims she ‘felt tired’ as reason for meth use when arrested

Nancy Blackburn of Tecumseh, born in 1960, is now facing several charges, including possession of a controlled substance, after a search warrant was executed at her Tecumseh home.

According to a probable cause statement filed by Ozark County Deputy Josh Sherman, the search warrant was executed at 6:08 p.m. July 25, under probable cause related to “suspected possession of illegal narcotics, specifically methamphetamine.”

Sherman wrote that “Blackburn was located at the residence without incident. The search of the premises was conducted systematically, focusing on areas likely to contain narcotics and paraphernalia.”

According to the probable cause statement, two items were located in a trailer that was attached to the main house: a mirror-clasped item containing a white crystal-like substance which field-tested positive for methamphetamine; and a white plate which also field-tested positive for methamphetamine residue.

After the items were discovered, Sherman wrote that Blackburn understood her rights but continued to speak with Sherman. “Blackburn confirmed that she had used methamphetamine because she needed extra energy to clean her house, stating that she is 65 years old and felt tired. She reconfirmed that she had provided the same information to her probation officer with court probationary services during a recent violation report.

“When questioned further, Blackburn advised that she did not use the methamphetamine at her residence but refused to provide specifics on where the use occurred.”

Blackburn is charged with possession of a controlled substance, keeping or maintaining a public nuisance and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. She is scheduled to appear in Ozark County Associate Court at 1:30 p.m. Oct. 28 on the charges.