HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A 44-year-old Hutchinson man with a case already pending against him was back before a judge Friday morning where he waived his right to a preliminary hearing in a second case.
Richard Manion was arrested by police on Aug. 26, after an officer recognized him and knew he had warrants. The officer began to follow him. After noticing some traffic infractions, the officer made a traffic stop on his vehicle. Manion was unable to provide any driver’s license or proof of insurance, so the officer ordered him from the vehicle and saw a grinder in the door of the vehicle.
That led to a search of the vehicle and they allegedly discovered around 29 grams of methamphetamine as well as some prescription pills. They also did a search of a local motel room and allegedly found more items consistent with drug distribution including some cash, just under $4,000.
He entered “not guilty” pleas to those charges.
In the other case still pending, he’s charged with possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell, possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to distribute, no drug tax stamp and personal use drug paraphernalia.
He was arrested in that case along with 35-year-old Aubrey Ramsey.
Law Enforcement served a search warrant on a home in the 200 block of West 11th on Feb. 18 and allegedly found 13 prepackaged baggies with a crystal substance suspected as being methamphetamine, one sandwich bag with a crystal substance, numerous new baggies, several new syringes and scale weights. Total weight of the drugs was around 136 grams.
He does have numerous convictions, including unlawful manufacturing, several convictions for identity theft, theft, forgery, drug sales and burglary.
With him entering the plea, both cases will be set for jury trials.