BEDFORD – On Thursday, Jan. 26, Lawrence County Sheriff’s Sergeant Lonnie Johnson responded to a local school where a young juvenile was in possession of a “vape”.
Sgt. Johnson tested the substance in the vape and discovered that it was THC. He launched an investigation, with the assistance of Indiana State Police Trooper Chance Humphrey, on how and why such young juveniles were coming into possession of the illegal drug.
During the course of this investigation, information was obtained that 21-year-old Noah Slinkard, of Bedford, was involved in the dealing and distribution of marijuana, THC vapes, and controlled substances to dozens of juveniles in Lawrence County.
A search warrant was requested and granted for a residence in the 1700 block of 25th Street in Bedford after a thorough investigation.
Officers with both the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office and the Indiana State Police executed the search warrant. During the search of the residence, officers located methamphetamine, controlled substances, legend drugs, THC in various forms, and drug paraphernalia.
Slinkard was arrested and incarcerated in the Lawrence County Jail on charges of dealing and possession of marijuana, possession of a legend drug, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Monica Downham was arrested and incarcerated in the Lawrence County Jail on charges of possession of meth, possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.
Additional arrests are expected as it relates to dealing drugs to juveniles.
Lawrence County officers who assisted Sgt. Johnson and Trp. Humphrey included Major Brandon Blackwell, Clifford Pruett, and Sheriff Greg Day. Involved State Troopers included Richard Klun, Brian Snyder, Ben Burris, and Caroline Harding.
Anyone with illegal drug activity information is encouraged to contact the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office at 812-275-3316, the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s tip line at 812-545-4700, or send an email to drugactivity@lawrencecounty.in.gov. All such calls are confidential.
