BEDFORD – A Bedford man was arrested early on January 6, 2025, after a traffic stop led to the discovery of illegal substances and violations of several state laws. Joseph L. Moose, 45, of Norman, Indiana, faces multiple charges following the incident, including possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and several traffic infractions.
According to the probable cause affidavit filed by Captain Max Uebelhoer of the Bedford Police Department, the arrest occurred at approximately 3:48 a.m. when the officer observed a silver passenger vehicle parked in the westbound lane of 5th Street with its hazard lights flashing. The car was facing eastbound, and Captain Uebelhoer approached to check on the situation.
When the officer knocked on the driver’s side door, Joseph Moose, 45, the vehicle’s sole occupant, opened the door and explained that he had run out of gas while heading to a friend’s house. However, as soon as the door was opened, the officer detected the strong odor of burnt marijuana, which led to further questioning.
Moose admitted that there was marijuana in the vehicle. He was then detained and read his Miranda rights before officers proceeded to search the vehicle. During the search, officers discovered several items of evidentiary value, including two partially burnt hand-rolled cigarettes, a glass smoking device with burnt residue, and two metal grinders containing loose plant-like material. The plant material tested positive for marijuana.
On Moose’s person, officers found a black magnetic container that held eight tablets imprinted with “RP” and “n8.” Preliminary tests identified the pills as Buprenorphine Hydrochloride and Naloxone Hydrochloride, substances commonly associated with the drug Suboxone. Moose admitted the pills were indeed Suboxone but stated that he did not have a prescription for them. He was arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
In addition to the drug-related charges, Moose was cited for operating a vehicle with an expired license plate and for failing to comply with a travel warning issued by Lawrence County. The county had been under a red status travel warning due to severe winter weather conditions, and Moose’s failure to comply with this order resulted in further infractions.
Moose was transported to the Lawrence County Jail, where he was processed and remanded into custody. Jackson’s Heavy Haul towed the vehicle.
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.
