COWLEY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating three suspects on drug and firearm charges.
On February 6, police responded to a home in the 500 Block of South Sixth Street in Arkansas City for a report of a burglary, according to a media release. As they canvassed the surrounding area, they found items behind a residence at 523 S. Fifth Street that belonged to the burglary victim.
They attempted to contact the homeowner, but were unable to speak with anyone at that time.
Just before 3:30 a.m. January 7, an officer observed a vehicle in the driveway and lights on at the residence at 523 S. Fifth and could smell a strong odor of marijuana while standing on the front patio.
The officer also was able to observe illegal drug activities taking place, providing probable cause for a search warrant, which was applied for, obtained and executed later that morning.
During a search of the residence, officers located a loaded firearm and items related to drug sales.
Police made three arrests including Danny Duarte, 28, on suspicion of felony counts of possession of a controlled substance and possession of a depressant, as well as a misdemeanor count of possession of drug paraphernalia. He was transported to and booked into the Cowley County Jail in Winfield in lieu of $4,500 bond through Cowley County District Court in Arkansas City.
Amber Meleise McHargue, 31, was arrested on suspicion of felony possession of a controlled substance, as well as misdemeanor counts of possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana. She was booked into the county jail in lieu of $4,500 bond through Ark City district court.
Cody Christopher Ranger, 26, was arrested on suspicion of felony counts of criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, distribution of a controlled substance, possession of drug-sale paraphernalia, possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, as well as misdemeanor counts of no drug tax stamp for a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. Ranger was transported to and booked into the county jail in lieu of $32,500 bond through Arkansas City district court.
All three individuals remained in custody. Both Duarte and McHargue reside at 523 S. Fifth Street. Ranger is listed as homeless.