BEDFORD — A Bedford Police Department investigation led to the arrest of Shelby L. Horton, 29, following an incident that occurred early on July 7, 2023, at Becky’s Place, a local residential program.
Horton faces charges of possession of methamphetamine and neglect of a dependent.
According to a probable cause affidavit filed by Officer Toby Gerkin, police were dispatched to Becky’s Place around 2:17 a.m. after staff reported that Horton was allegedly in possession of drugs. Upon arrival, the program director informed officers that another resident had alerted her to Horton’s possession of meth. She reported that Horton complied with her request to surrender the drugs, handing over a small black metal container that contained two baggies of a crystal-like substance.
Officer Gerkin verified the contents of the container as methamphetamine after conducting a field test. During subsequent questioning, Horton admitted to possessing the drugs and disclosed that she had used meth earlier that evening. She also indicated that she had left her child in a playpen in their room while she used the substance in a bathroom.
Regarding the circumstances, including concerns for the child’s well-being, Officer Gerkin contacted the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS). DCS caseworker subsequently arrived at the scene, spoke with Horton, and decided to remove the child from her custody.
Horton expressed a desire to remain in the program at Becky’s Place and acknowledged her actions. She stated her willingness to take steps to avoid further consequences regarding her child.
Investigators submitted a request for a warrant for Horton’s arrest following the arrest.
Officers submitted an arrest warrant on October 17, 2024, and Horton was arrested on Friday, October 18, 2024.
Those facing criminal charges are considered innocent unless convicted through due legal proceedings. Accusations alone do not imply guilt; the judicial system will evaluate the presented evidence to reach a verdict.
