Suspected methamphetamine was found Tuesday when the Barton County Sheriff’s Office raided one residence in Great Bend and one residence north of the city.
The Barton County Sheriff’s Office executed the first drug-related search warrants around 11:30 a.m. at 1411 20th St., and a second set of search warrants in the afternoon at 323 Marla St.
Sheriff Brian Bellendir said the warrants were obtained as the result as an ongoing BCSO investigation.
“During the execution of these warrants, approximately 9 ounces of methamphetamine was seized along with drug paraphernalia,” Bellendir stated in a press release. “The methamphetamine is believed to have the street value of in excess of $20,000. Sheriff’s officers also seized vehicles and other assets at the scene. These assets will be the subject of a tax warrant issued by the state of Kansas through the ABC. (Alcoholic Beverage Control).”
Officers arrested Israel Klein, 29, of Great Bend, at the 20th St. address. At the Marla St. address they arrested José Enriquez, 31, and Jacqueline Verduzco-Gonzales, 21 both of Great Bend. Four children were taken into protective custody and placed with child services.
Officers also seized two firearms. One was a .45 Firestorm semiautomatic pistol at the 20th St. address and had previously been reported as stolen.
Bellendir noted that more arrests and warrants are expected in the ongoing investigation. The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and the Great Bend Police Department.
Jose Enriquez was booked into the Barton County Jail on charges of possession with intent to distribute meth, and possession of meth and drug paraphernalia. Bond was set at $300,000.
Jaqueline Verduzco-Gonzalez was booked for possession with intent to distribute meth, and possession of meth and drug paraphernalia, as well as felony obstruction. Her bond was also set at $300,000.
Israel Klein was book for possession of marijuana, with bond set at $10,000.