Two arrested after fentanyl, cocaine, weapons seized in Joplin

Two cousins from Joplin have been taken into custody after a drug search warrant netted fentanyl and other narcotics

On August 12, 2024, ODET Detectives, Newton County SWAT and Joplin PD served a Search Warrant on West 45th street in Joplin.

ODET Detectives arrested Marvin Ward and Elijah Ward. ODET Detectives seized Cocaine, Fentanyl, Marijuana, and two handguns from the residence.

Court documents say during a hand search of Marvin’s room, a black safe was located on the floor. Inside the safe was 20 grams of a white power substance that later field tested positive for Cocaine using the Tru Narc Device.

Also located were around 40 pills. The pills were various colors, and shapes. The pills also contained different logos and imprints on them. These pills later field tested positive for Fentanyl when tested with the Tru-Narc Device. Also, inside the safe was $5,669 dollars in cash.

A black pistol was also located inside the safe. Marvin is a convicted felon. Marvin was convicted of Felony Stealing on 03/18/2021. Marvin was given probation for this. Marvin is still currently on probation.

Elijah and also resides at the home. During a hand search of Elijah’s room, a black pistol was located inside Elijah’s dresser drawer. Elijah is a convicted felon. Elijah was convicted of Unlawful Use of a Weapon, an E Felony on 10/06/2021. Elijah was given probation for this. Elijah’s probation ended 04/03/2024. The firearm was located inside the dresser, which was next to Elijah’s bed, and was easily accessible.

Marvin Ward was charged with first-degree trafficking, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.

Elijah Ward was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.