Beginning in October 2025, Detectives with the Crime Resolution Unit (CRU) initiated an investigation into an individual residing in Pettis County who was suspected of distributing illegal drugs. During the course of the investigation, investigators identified the suspect as Trenton R. Willis, a 26-year-old male, who was allegedly selling large quantities of marijuana and THC-infused products to individuals in Pettis and Johnson County area. Investigators determined Willis was operating his own cannabis dispensary in violation of the state statutes that regulate the legal sale/purchase of such products.
On December 29, 2025, as part of the ongoing investigation, members of the Missouri State Highway Patrol conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle operated by Willis while he was traveling through Johnson County after returning from the Kansas City area. During the stop, Pettis County Sheriff’s Office K-9 “Cav” was deployed and provided a positive alert for the odor of illegal drugs.
A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed Willis was transporting more than 20 pounds of high grade marijuana, 8 pounds of THC wax, 106 THC infused vape pens, and numerous additional THC infused products. Willis was also found to be in possession of a handgun and approximately $2,000 in U.S. currency, believed to be proceeds from illegal drug sales. Willis was arrested and transported to the Johnson County Jail.
On December 30, 2025, as a result of evidence obtained during the traffic stop, investigators with the Crime Resolution Unit obtained a search warrant for Willis’ residence located at 1013 East Lane, La Monte. Members of the Sedalia Police Department and Pettis County Sheriff’s Office executed the warrant. Upon arrival, investigators made contact with a female subject at the residence who allowed entry into the home.
A search of the residence revealed a substantial amount of evidentiary items, which further substantiated Willis’ involvement in distributing cannabis and THC products in violation of recreational marijuana statutes. Items seized included approximately 11 pounds of high-grade marijuana, 209 bottles of THC infused syrup, 91 packages of THC infused gummies, 538 disposable THC infused vape pens, 184 THC vape pen replacement cartridges, 8 rifles, 7 handguns, 1,860 rounds of ammunition, and more than $58,000 in U.S. currency, believed to be proceeds from illegal marijuana distribution. In addition, one rifle had been reported stolen out of Kansas City, MO.
On December 30, Johnson County officials issued an arrest warrant for Willis on charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance and Unlawful Use of a Weapon, with a $10,000 cash-only bond. Additional charges are being sought in Pettis County stemming from evidence recovered during the execution of the search warrant at his residence.
Willis remains incarcerated in the Johnson County Jail at this time. He is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
200 S. Osage Avenue
Sedalia, MO 65301
660-827-3000
Sedalia Police Department’s Crime Resolution Unit Investigation Leads to Arrest, Seizure of Firearms, Large Amount of Cash, and Illegal Drug Distribution Operation
During the course of the investigation, detectives seized a 2017 Cadillac SUV that was used to transport illegal drugs for distribution. Detectives will seek civil forfeiture of the vehicles through the court process. Detectives will also seek forfeiture of cash seized.
The Sedalia Police Department would like to thank the Pettis County Sheriffs Office and the Missouri State Highway Patrol for their assistance in this investigation.
The Sedalia Police Department’s Crime Resolution Unit takes narcotics distribution investigations seriously and remains committed to identifying, investigating, and arresting individuals involved in drug trafficking. The Crime Resolution Unit will continue to work proactively and diligently to hold offenders accountable and enhance the safety and well-being of Sedalia residents. Should you have any information or tips, please email cru@sedaliapolice.com
