LINN — The Osage County Sheriff’s Office and the Linn Police Department collaborated in a drug investigation that resulted in the recovery of approximately 37 grams of suspected cocaine, a handgun, drug-related items, and an illegal anabolic steroid.

The investigation began when Linn Police Department officers responded to a report concerning a male subject, identified as Gregory Riley, who was reportedly staying at an apartment located at 1015 East Main Street in Linn. Officers were advised that Riley was wanted on outstanding warrants and was reportedly in possession of a firearm and cocaine.

Upon arrival, Linn officers made contact with the residents and obtained consent to enter areas of the residence where individuals not involved in the reported activity were located. Officers subsequently located Riley in a bedroom where he was staying with Madison Knutson.

During the initial contact, Riley reportedly failed to comply with officers’ commands and was detained in handcuffs. Officers subsequently located an unknown substance on Riley that was later identified as Dianabol, an anabolic steroid, along with a $100 bill rolled into a straw that contained cocaine residue.

During the investigation, officers also received additional information from residents regarding the reported presence of a firearm and a larger quantity of cocaine.

Because of the nature of the allegations and the potential for additional evidence to be located, the Linn Police Department requested assistance from the Osage County Sheriff’s Office and the local Drug Task Force.

Osage County personnel responded to assist with the investigation and scene security. After the information gathered at the scene was reviewed and the necessary legal process was completed, a search warrant was obtained.

The search warrant was subsequently served, resulting in the seizure of approximately 37 grams of cocaine packaged in multiple bags, a digital scale, and a handgun from the bedroom where Riley and Knutson had been staying.

Following the search, Gregory Riley and Madison Knutson were arrested by the Linn Police Department and transported for processing. Other residents of the apartment were determined to have no involvement in the illegal activity and were not arrested.

Sheriff Mike Bonham said the incident demonstrates the importance of cooperation between local law-enforcement agencies and the value of following the proper investigative and legal process.

“This investigation is a good example of local law-enforcement agencies working together to address illegal drugs and firearms while ensuring that the constitutional rights of everyone involved are respected,” Sheriff Bonham said. “Our deputies and task-force personnel are prepared to assist our municipal partners when circumstances require additional resources and expertise.”

The Osage County Sheriff’s Office recognizes the work of the Linn Police Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and all personnel involved in the investigation. The cooperation between agencies allowed investigators to safely address the reported concerns, obtain the appropriate legal authority, and conduct a thorough search.

No charges had been filed at the time of this writing. All persons arrested are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.