LAWRENCE CO. – A Bedford man is facing multiple charges after a traffic stop on March 21, 2024, led to the discovery of drugs in his system and a suspended driver’s license.
A warrant was issued for the arrest of 46-year-old Jason F. Bryant on charges of driving while his driver’s license was suspended and operating a vehicle with a controlled substance in his blood.
The traffic stop occurred at approximately 7:51 p.m. when Indiana State Police Trooper Ben Burris observed a 2005 blue Ford Explorer traveling northbound on State Road 37 near Washboard Road in Lawrence County. The vehicle, which had an expired license plate, and Trooper Burris initiated a traffic stop
Upon approaching the vehicle, Trooper Burris reported detecting the odor of cannabis coming from the car, and during questioning, Bryant admitted to having smoked earlier that day.
After Bryant agreed to perform field sobriety tests, which he reportedly passed with no signs of impairment, Trooper Burris called for a SoToxa oral fluid test, which is used to detect the presence of drugs. The results of the test showed that Bryant had methamphetamine, amphetamine, and cannabis in his system.
Bryant agreed to provide a blood sample and was transported to IU Health Bedford Hospital. The toxicology report later confirmed the presence of multiple drugs in Bryant’s system.
Further investigation revealed that Bryant’s driver’s license had been suspended in 2018 due to a prior conviction for driving while suspended. He was released to a friend, and the information was forwarded to the Lawrence County Prosecutor.
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.
