Three men were arrested Tuesday after a search of an Ellinwood residence led to discovery of suspected narcotics and paraphernalia.

According to an Ellinwood Police Department news release, members of the EPD and the Barton County Sheriff’s Office executed a narcotics search warrant at a residence located at 214 West 1st St. in Ellinwood around 5:51 p.m. on Jan. 12.

Upon entry, the officers located a substantial amount of suspected methamphetamine along with packing materials and distribution paraphernalia. The homeowner, Eugene Patrick Merica, 57, and roommate Stewart William Clay, 70, were arrested at the scene. A third individual, Steven Brian Merica, 42, was not home at the time of the search and was later arrested at a residence in Ellinwood.

All three suspects were transported to Barton County Jail, where they were booked for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of a school, possession of marijuana, and no drug tax stamp. They remain in custody in lieu of $300,000 bond. 

This case is still under investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact the EPD at 620-564-3001.