AVA, Mo. — Two people were arrested after the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team and Ava Police Department executed a narcotics search warrant Aug. 29 at a residence on Evans Street in Ava.
Joseph A. Merriett, 50, and Dianne Marie Barnes Wycka, 48, were arrested following the search and each charged with possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.
According to probable cause statements filed in Douglas County Circuit Court, Sheriff Chris Degase obtained a narcotics search warrant for the residence at 914 Evans Street on Aug. 20. Officers executed the warrant at approximately 8:20 p.m. Aug. 29.
Authorities reported encountering five people in the front yard before entering the residence, where Merriett and Barnes were allegedly found together in a bedroom.
According to the probable cause statement, officers searched Merriett and allegedly found a clear vial containing a white crystalline substance in his pants pocket. The substance reportedly field tested positive for methamphetamine.
During a search of the bedroom, investigators reported finding a WD 40 aerosol can and a butane aerosol can with white crystalline residue on the bottoms. Both reportedly field tested positive for methamphetamine. Investigators also reported finding part of a cotton swab with the butane can. Degase wrote in the probable cause statement that, based on his training and experience, the concave bottoms of aerosol cans can be used in connection with intravenous drug use.
In the attached garage, authorities allegedly found a black bag containing an open clear plastic container and a clear plastic scoop. Both reportedly had white crystalline residue that field tested positive for methamphetamine.
Degase also wrote that Barnes told investigators she would test positive for methamphetamine if given a urinalysis. Merriett and Barnes were subsequently transported to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and placed on 24 hour investigative holds.
Court records show Merriett was issued a $2,500 cash only bond. Conditions included Court Probation Services supervision, twice weekly drug testing and restrictions against illegal drugs or mood altering substances. His arraignment was held Aug. 31, and a bond reduction hearing is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sept. 9 before Associate Circuit Judge Elizabeth A. Bock.
Barnes was issued a $5,000 cash bond with similar supervision and drug testing conditions. Her arraignment was also held Aug. 31, and a bond reduction hearing is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sept. 9.
The sheriff’s office thanked the Ava Police Department for assisting with execution of the search warrant.
“The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is committed to continuing this fight to rid our County of this evil,” Degase said.
All charges are allegations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
