FORREST CITY, Ark. — A coordinated law enforcement operation in Forrest City led to the arrest of three individuals after officers raided a hotel room and allegedly discovered a significant amount of methamphetamine, cash, and firearms.
Authorities said the investigation began on March 13 when the Forrest City Criminal Investigation Division (CID), working alongside the St. Francis County Sheriff’s Department, received a tip regarding suspected drug activity at a local hotel. Acting on that information, officers executed a raid on the room in question.
During the search, investigators reported seizing approximately 1.26 pounds of methamphetamine, 18 hypodermic needles, a digital scale, a firearm, a large quantity of plastic baggies commonly associated with narcotics distribution, and $8,760 in cash.
Following the operation, three individuals were taken into custody:
- Michael Like, 49, faces charges including trafficking a controlled substance, possession of drugs and firearms, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of a firearm by certain persons. His bond was set at $100,000.
- Jessica Merrida, 34, was charged with trafficking a controlled substance, possession of drugs and firearms, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Her bond was set at $50,000.
- Sonya Partain, 54, faces charges of trafficking a controlled substance, possession of drugs and firearms, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of a firearm by certain persons. Her bond was set at $50,000.
Officials indicated that the quantity of methamphetamine recovered suggests possible distribution activity rather than personal use. The presence of scales, baggies, and cash further supports that assessment, according to investigators.
All three suspects were transported to the local detention facility and are awaiting further court proceedings. Authorities have not released additional details regarding how long the investigation had been ongoing or whether more arrests are expected.
The case remains under active investigation.
