A Minden — man already jailed on drug and traffic charges — is now facing additional counts after Webster Parish Sheriff’s detectives said they found more illegal narcotics and firearms at his residence.
According to the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office, 30-year-old Calvin Ray Manning remains in custody at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center. Manning is charged with possession of Schedule I marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of Schedule I synthetic marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm in the presence of controlled dangerous substances, and possession of controlled dangerous substances in the presence of juveniles. His bond for the new charges totals $90,000.
The charges stem from a continuing investigation following Manning’s October 9 arrest, when deputies reportedly observed him driving erratically on Middle Road. Deputies said they witnessed the vehicle accelerate quickly and cross the center line several times. When they initiated a traffic stop, the driver, identified as Manning, allegedly reached toward the passenger side of the vehicle before stopping.
During the stop, deputies said they saw suspected marijuana in plain view inside the glove box. A subsequent probable cause search reportedly uncovered a baggie containing suspected crack cocaine hidden inside a bag of chicken. Manning allegedly admitted ownership of the marijuana but claimed the crack cocaine belonged to another person.
He was arrested on charges of possession of crack cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana, speeding, improper lane usage and violation of the open container ordinance. His bond for those offenses was set at $25,004.
Following the initial arrest, detectives obtained a search warrant for Manning’s residence in the 100 block of Wiggins Lane. During the search, investigators said they found four large bags of suspected marijuana, one large bag and 17 smaller bags of suspected synthetic marijuana packaged for sale, and a THC hash cookie. Three firearms were also seized.
Two small children were reportedly present in the home when the narcotics were found. During questioning, Manning allegedly admitted the drugs and firearms belonged to him.
“Even though our detectives made an arrest a few days earlier, they continued to gather evidence,” said Maj. Bobby Igo III, head of the Sheriff’s Drug and Criminal Investigation Unit. “Using standard investigative techniques, they collected enough information to get a warrant and get these drugs and weapons off our streets.”
All subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.