Drugs, cash reported seized in two raids

Serving two search warrants Tuesday, METRICH-MARMET agents reported they made four arrests and seized heroin, cocaine, crack-cocaine and marijuana as well as at least $900 in cash.

The operation involved searches at 224 N. Grand Ave. and 618 Henry St., according to a METRICH-MARMET news release, and they occurred shortly before 7 p.m. Tuesday. Marion residents Tommy Owens, 25, Davon Megginson, 21, and Shaquille Smith, 22, were arrested, as was A'Darian Wellman. No age or address was available for Wellman.

The news release said they seized 35 grams of cocaine, 55 grams of crack-cocaine, 40 grams of marijuana and 3 grams of heroin in both houses. Another .5 grams of the 3 grams of heroin were seized at 618 Henry St. officials said.

"The investigation is ongoing and more charges are expected in this case," Marion Police Lt. Chris Adkins said. "METRICH-MARMET detectives will continue to investigate and arrest those that choose to peddle poison in our community."

Owens was arrested on charges of possession of cocaine, as a first-degree felony, and tampering with evidence, a third-degree felony. Megginson was arrested on charges of tampering with evidence, a third-degree felony, and possession of heroin and cocaine, both charged as fifth-degree felonies.

Smith was arrested on a charge of permitting drug abuse, a fifth-degree felony. Wellman was arrested on a charge of obstructing official business, a second-degree misdemeanor. Megginson and Wellman were also arrested on charges of probation violation.

The warrants were the result of a month-long investigation into drug trafficking, according to officials. In the days between Jan. 20 and Feb. 9, when the raids occurred, Marion safety forces responded to at least 10 overdoses and three more possible overdose deaths.

Originally published in the Marion Star on February 11, 2016.