Tri-DENT arrests 2 men after investigations into narcotic sales

Two men were arrested last week after investigations into illegal narcotic sales in Peru and Oglesby.

John M. Hemphill, 63, of Spring Valley, was arrested Friday after police said he delivered less than one gram of crack cocaine to Tri-DENT agents.

Nicholas E. Panicucci, 21, of Oglesby, was arrested Thursday after police said he delivered less than five units of a substance containing LSD. Panicucci also had a domestic battery charge.

Hemphill and Panicucci are both being held at La Salle County Jail on $500,000 bond, needing $50,000 for release.

Hemphill appeared in court Friday and a public defender was appointed. His next court date is scheduled Friday, Oct. 30, in Judge H. Chris Ryan's courtroom.

Panicucci appeared in court Friday and said he will hire a private lawyer. His next court date is set Thursday, Oct. 22, in Judge Cynthia Raccuglia's courtroom.