Suspected drug dealer hid psychedelic mushroom operation in 'hidden room'

DAVIESS CO., Ky. (WFIE) – A suspected mushroom trafficker in Daviess County was taken into custody on Halloween.

Thursday. Authorities say they executed a search warrant at the home of Joseph K. VanVactor in the 11600 block of US 431 in Utica.

The Daviess County Sheriff’s Office says VanVactor was named as a suspect after detectives received tips from the community about illegal drug activity.

During a search of his home, officers say they found a psilocybin mushroom growing facility in a hidden room behind a bookshelf.

We’re told approximately 3 pounds of psilocybin mushrooms and psilocybin mushroom supplies, marijuana, digital scales, vacuum sealing equipment and other items were seized by investigators.

In addition, officials say three handguns, two rifles and a 12-gauge shotgun were also seized.

34-year-old Joseph Kyle VanVactor was arrested on charges of first-degree wanton endangerment of a police officer (6 counts), second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, first offense (while armed), trafficking in marijuana (while armed) and purchasing drug paraphernalia/Possession (while armed).