BEDFORD— A Bedford woman was arrested on several severe drug offenses following an investigation by the Indiana State Police.
Melissa D. Kern, 51, faces multiple counts related to the dealing and possession of methamphetamine, as outlined in a recent affidavit filed by Detective Caleb B. Garvin.
The investigation began in August 2023 after law enforcement received reports regarding Kern’s alleged involvement in the sale of methamphetamine in Lawrence County. A confidential informant played a crucial role in gathering evidence against her.
According to the affidavit, three controlled buys were conducted throughout the investigation. The first two incidents involved the purchase of more than one gram but less than five grams of methamphetamine from Kern. The substance purchased in both instances tested positive for methamphetamine. In a third controlled buy in September 2023, more than five grams but less than ten grams were purchased, yielding positive results.
On October 26, 2023, detectives approached Kern’s residence for questioning. After identifying themselves, Kern invited them inside. During the conversation, Kern admitted to selling methamphetamine occasionally to support her addiction, stating she does not deal in large quantities. When asked about the presence of drugs in her home, Kern confirmed there were substances present and consented to a search of the premises.
During the search, officers discovered two containers containing crystal substances believed to be methamphetamine, along with two hypodermic syringes used for drug ingestion. All evidence collected during the controlled buys and the subsequent search was secured and sent for laboratory analysis.
Kern is now facing serious charges, including one count of dealing methamphetamine as a Level 3 felony, two counts as a Level 4 felony, one count of possession of methamphetamine as a Level 6 felony, and one count of possession of a hypodermic syringe as a Level 6 felony.
The Indiana State Police requested a warrant for Kern’s arrest. She was arrested on that warrant on 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.
