OKEECHOBEE — On March 6, 2025, members of the Okeechobee Narcotics Task Force, in coordination with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and with the assistance of the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office SWAT, conducted a narcotics search warrant at 804 NW 12th Street, Okeechobee, Florida.

The operation was the result of an extensive, ongoing narcotics investigation targeting drug distribution in the community.

The primary subjects of the investigation were Corey Hardey and Melissa Carnley.

The Narcotics Task Force had received numerous tips from concerned citizens and confidential sources reporting that Hardey and Carnley were actively selling drugs, including large amounts of Fentanyl, from their residence—creating a dangerous nuisance for the surrounding neighborhood.

During the search warrant, law enforcement officers discovered and seized Fentanyl, Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Marijuana, prescription pills, and other controlled substances, along with multiple firearms and ammunition scattered throughout the home.

As a result of this operation, four individuals were arrested and booked into the Okeechobee County Jail:

Corey Hardey, a convicted felon with 26 prior felony convictions, was released from prison last year. He now faces multiple felony charges, including: Possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon; possession of fentanyl, methamphetamine, marijuana, hydromorphone, oxycodone, and cocaine with intent to sell within 1,000 feet of a church; resisting arrest without violence; possession of drug paraphernalia. Bond is set at $1,706,000.

Melissa Carnley, a convicted felon with five prior felony convictions, was also released from custody last year. She faces similar charges as Hardey, and her bond is set at $1,406,000.00.

Linda Carnley and Calina Kimla, both convicted felons with two prior felony convictions each, were charged with: Possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon and resisting arrest without violence. Both bonds set at $110,000 each.

Sheriff Noel E. Stephen emphasized the significance of this operation, stating: “This arrest is a direct result of the collaboration between local and federal law enforcement agencies, as well as the valuable information provided by concerned citizens.

"The presence of Fentanyl and firearms in our community is a serious threat, and we will continue to pursue those who choose to endanger lives by engaging in drug trafficking. We are committed to keeping Okeechobee safe and holding criminals accountable.”

The Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office urges residents to report any suspected drug activity to local authorities.

Community involvement remains a crucial tool in our fight against illegal drugs and crime, and together, we are making a difference in Okeechobee County.