Twelve arraigned for drug-related offenses after bust of Centralia ‘Circus House’

Twelve people were arraigned for misdemeanor drug-related offenses in Centralia Municipal Court Thursday afternoon. They were arrested Tuesday from a home on East Chestnut Street known as the Centralia “Circus House," according to the Centralia Police Department. 

The dozen defendants appeared via a video call from the Chehalis Tribal Jail. All faced bail amounts of $2,000 cash or bond, which were upheld by Judge James Buzzard — despite requests that they be released on their own personal recognizance.

Each pleaded not guilty to the charges. They await a future court date on Oct. 2.

Of the 12 defendants, 11 were charged with knowing possession of a controlled substance and use or delivery of drug paraphernalia. Their names are: Matthew L. Bates, Jennifer M. Bock, Michael E. Bostwick, Tommy D. Evans, Adrian J. Gillespie, Jessica F.  Hill, Denise R. Larson, Rita F. Masters, Anthony W. Pyper, Corena E. Shunn and Charles E. Wiegard Jr.

Jon L. Pankowski was the lone defendant charged with first-degree criminal trespassing. Two other individuals who did not appear in court have apparently been released from jail.

The Joint Narcotics Enforcement Team (JNET) issued a press release Tuesday detailing the mass arrest. They described the house as a “major source of calls” over the past decade.

“From felony assaults to multiple drug overdoses to four train vs. pedestrian fatalities, 202 E. Chestnut St. has been a hot spot for criminal activity,” JNET stated. “The residence is known by both locals and the police as the 'Circus House' due to the high volume of illegal and unusual behavior.”

JNET detectives obtained a search warrant after Centralia police reportedly observed multiple marijuana plants at the house while dispatched on an unrelated matter.

They arrived at the house Tuesday morning, supported by detectives from Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, the Thurston County Narcotic Task Force and the Centralia Police Department.

"Located during the search were approximately 10 large potted marijuana plants, 15 hanging/drying marijuana plants, 3 pounds of processed marijuana, marijuana growing equipment, packaging, scales, user amounts of methamphetamine and fentanyl, and a plethora of drug paraphernalia,” the release stated.

More than 18 people were located at the house. Fourteen were arrested.