James Schmutz

     On Monday afternoon, March 2, a St. Clair County arrest warrant was issued and read to James Schmutz, 38, Osceola, charging him with four felony counts in reference to burglary reported at the Citizen's Memorial Hospital Pharmacy, Osceola on March 1. Schmutz is charged with class B felony theft/stealing, class C felony burglary in the second degree and two class B felony charges of distribution of a controlled substance. Bond is set at $100,000 cash or surety.

     An investigation discovered an estimated 7,000 prescription narcotic pills including hydrocodone, morphine and oxycodone were stolen from the pharmacy. The pills were located at a residence on SW 50 Road, Osceola, the same day and Schmutz was taken into custody. The street value of the drugs stolen was estimated at $83,000. 

     The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office and Mid Missouri Multi Jurisdiction Drug Task Force assisted the Osceola Police Department with the case.