To federal drug crime
A Vian man who was indicted earlier this year after a narcotics search warrant was served at his residence has reportedly entered a plea in federal court.
Robert “Bob” C. Ward, 68, pled guilty to the charge of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, according to a press release issued by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
Ward’s residence on Evening Shade near Vian was raided by authorities on January 2 where they reportedly found nearly two pounds of methamphetamine, marijuana, digital scales, packaging materials, other items of drugs paraphernalia, and a digital surveillance system.
According to investigators, Ward possessed and intended to distribute over 575 grams (nearly two pounds) of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
More than 40 firearms were also seized by Sequoyah County Sheriff deputies, Sallisaw Police Department, ATF, and the Cherokee Marshals Service, along with over $2,000 in U.S. Currency.
Sequoyah County Sheriff Larry Lane said two of the firearms were found to be stolen at the time.
Lane said the bust was the conclusion of a very lengthy investigation into numerous property thefts and methamphetamine distribution in the county.
“Bob Ward has been a thorn in our side for several years,” Lane said. “We’ve busted him several times and he’s always managed to get his cases dismissed. It’s really frustrating to me and for my deputies and investigators, when they work so hard to get a known drug dealer and thief off the streets, and he just laughs at them as he walks out of the courthouse.
“This time, the ATF adopted his case and prosecuted him through the federal system, hopefully he will be convicted this time.”
“Our entire investigation unit, as well as the patrol deputies, have worked a long time on this target,” he said. “I’m proud they have all worked together so well to get this guy.”
The Honorable Gerald L. Jackson, Magistrate Judge, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a pre-sentence investigation report.
Ward was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.
