Traffic Stop Leads to Search Warrant

A routine traffic stop early on January 23, 2025, led to a significant drug investigation and multiple arrests by the Parsons Police Department. The incident unfolded when officers conducted a traffic stop in the 1600 block of Thornton at approximately 1:00 a.m., uncovering drug paraphernalia and initiating a broader investigation.

Sergeant Christian Smith and K9 Morgan were instrumental in building probable cause to search the vehicle during the stop. The search revealed multiple items of drug paraphernalia in the possession of Karen Diane Murphy, 57, of Parsons, who was a passenger in the vehicle. Murphy was promptly arrested and booked on suspicion of possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

"This case underscores the importance of diligent policing and proactive investigations," said Police Chief Robert Spinks. "Thanks to the efforts of our officers, a routine stop led to the uncovering of a broader network of narcotics activity."

Further investigation by officers revealed information about the origin of the narcotics and marijuana found in Murphy's possession. Officers identified a residence where Murphy had allegedly acquired the drugs and applied for a search warrant.

Later that day, at approximately 6:30 p.m., officers executed a search warrant at 1014 South 16th Street. The operation involved officers and detectives who conducted a thorough search of the property, uncovering over 32 items of evidence linked to the use, sale, and distribution of narcotics. The evidence included pills, methamphetamine, marijuana, and other drug-related items.

Three individuals were located at the residence during the search, including Larry Neal McQuarie Jr. and Lisa Lynae Stover. Both were arrested and are facing a range of charges. Stover attempted to flee the scene to avoid arrest but was quickly apprehended by officers. The third was released at the scene. McQuarie is a registered drug offender from a 2012 conviction for manufacturing a controlled substance.

Stover's charges include:

·         Possession of drug paraphernalia

·         Possession of narcotics

·         Interference with law enforcement

·         Escape from custody

McQuarie faces numerous charges, including:

·         Possession of opiates

·         Possession of marijuana

·         Possession of hallucinogenic drugs

·         Two counts of possession of paraphernalia

·         Three counts of possession of a controlled substance

·         Distribution of a controlled substance

·         Criminal possession of weapons by a felon

 

"The arrests and recovery of evidence demonstrate our commitment to tackling drug activity in our community," Chief Spinks stated. "This operation highlights the professionalism and dedication of our officers, who work tirelessly to ensure the safety of our residents."

The items recovered from the residence were cataloged as evidence, with the goal of supporting prosecution and disrupting the flow of narcotics within the community. Police Chief Spinks emphasized the importance of community involvement in combating illegal drug activity.

"We rely on strong partnerships with our residents to identify and address criminal behavior," said Chief Spinks. "Together, we can continue to make Parsons and Labette County a safer and more secure place to live."

This continues to be an on-going investigation, and citizens are encouraged to "See It, Hear It, Report It." All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If anyone has any further information on this incident or any other criminal activity, please contact the Parsons Police Department at 421-7060 or call the Tip Line at 421-7057 or email at tips@parsonspdks.gov.

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