FORD COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating four suspects on drug charges and traffic stops in southwest Kansas.
On Monday, deputies stopped a vehicle in the 2300 block of west Wyatt Earp Blvd. in Dodge City, according to a media release from the Ford County Sheriff.
Deputies contacted the driver identified as 59-year-old Sandy Marks and a a passenger identified as 45-year-old Jennifer Ortiz both of Wichita.
Marks did not have a valid driver’s license and Ortiz was transporting an open container. When she exited the vehicle deputies noticed a cracker box with a crystal substance in it. A search of the vehicle was conducted which resulted in the seizure of multiple narcotics and drug paraphernalia. They arrested Marks and Ortiz who remain in the Ford County Jail, according to online records.
The second traffic stop was conducted in the 800 block of Wilroads Garden Road in Dodge City. Deputies contacted two occupants of the vehicle. The passenger of the vehicle had an active Ford County warrant. Upon search of the passenger, he was found to be in possession of narcotics. A search of the vehicle was conducted resulting in the seizure of multiple narcotics and drug paraphernalia and a firearm.
Deputies arrested Miquel L. McPhaul Jr., 32 and Dennis Crosby, 41, both of Wichita, who remain in custody.
The two traffic stops resulted in the seizure of approximately 915.5 grams of marijuana, 38 grams of methamphetamine, a loaded 9mm pistol, and 575 suspected fentanyl pills.
The cases will be presented to the Ford County Attorney’s Office for review and charging decisions.