West Plains, MO. – Two people were arrested on Wednesday in West Plains following a narcotics search warrant being executed on a Maple Street residence where a woman died of a drug overdose last year.
On Jan. 10, 2024, around 10:39 a.m., West Plains Police enacted a narcotics search warrant on the residence of Christopher Wright, age 41, at 305 W. Maple Street. There Wright and a second person, Amy Poyner, age 35, were taken into custody.
A search of the residence recovered multiple controlled substances, including psilocybin, 5 bags of methamphetamine, hydromorphone/hydrocloride pills, clonazepam, Adderal, Tramadol hydrochloride, Alprazolam, and Lorazepam. Also recovered was 2 rifles, a shotgun, a revolver, 3 glass smoking devices, and $3,805 in cash.
According to the probable cause statement, Wright told authorities in post-Miranda interviews, “I have bought and sold meth to thousands of people during the time I’ve been involved.” He also stated he would buy and sell roughly a quarter-pound of methamphetamine every 3 to 4 weeks.
Wright is charged with 2nd-degree trafficking drugs, unlawful use of a weapon – subsection 11, and keeping a public nuisance. He is being held on a $100,000 cash or corporate surety bond.
Poyner is charged with delivery of a controlled substance except 35 grams or less of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid. She is being held on a $50,000 cash or corporate surety bond.
The probable cause statement notes that on September 16, 2023, WPPD officers responded to a narcotics overdose at Wright’s residence, where a woman, known to be Jessica Edwards, was found deceased. Toxicology results showed her death was associated with fentanyl overdose and methamphetamine toxicity.
Since the arrest, locals have noted multiple people and vehicles entering the building each day.
