ALTON – An Alton man with multiple prior convictions has been released from custody following new felony weapon and drug offenses.Brian E. Merrifield, 45, of Alton, was charged on Oct. 2, 2026 with two Class X felony counts of possession of a firearm by a repeat felony offender, two Class 1 felony counts of delivery of a controlled substance and one count each of possession of a controlled substance and resisting or obstructing a peace officer, both Class 4 felonies.Merrifield was allegedl...