Two under arrest in Newton County following narcotics search

On April 23, 2025, the Newton County Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team, along with the Ozarks Drug Enforcement Team and McDonald County Sheriff’s Office executed a narcotics search warrant at 21889 Jaguar Road, Goodman, Newton County, Missouri.

Newton County Sheriff Matt Stewart says the warrant stemmed from an ongoing investigation conducted by his office and Ozarks Drug Enforcement Team.

Upon arrival, Deputies located Johnathon Lee Bickford, 33, on the property.

Bickford was found in possession of suspected methamphetamine and was arrested. He also had an active arrest warrant issued by the Neosho Police Department.

Melvin Leon Bickford, 56, was also present and was found in possession of suspected methamphetamine. Both individuals, residents of the property, were taken into custody.

Charges have been submitted to the Newton County Prosecutor on Johnathon Lee Bickford and Melvin Leon Bickford for possession of a controlled substance. As of this release, both remain in custody in the Newton County Jail.

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office and its partner agencies are committed to combating illegal drug activity in our communities.

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone with information about illegal drugs in our communities to call 417-451-8333 to report the activity.