BEDFORD– A New Albany man was arrested in Bedford on Saturday, March 22, after police responded to a welfare check and subsequently took him into custody.
Chester Townsend, 51, of New Albany, was arrested after Bedford Police Department officers were dispatched to the Harbor Freight door entrance at 3305 16th Street at approximately 3:43 p.m. regarding a male subject sitting outside without shoes and with tape on his feet.
According to the probable cause affidavit filed by Officer Stuart Ratcliff, upon arrival, officers made contact with Townsend, who stated he was in pain from recent toe amputations at IU Health Bedford Hospital three days prior. Townsend told officers he was attempting to travel to Louisville, Kentucky, and had walked to Harbor Freight from the hospital.
Officer Ratcliff reported observing that Townsend exhibited slurred speech and a strong odor of alcohol. Townsend admitted to consuming “half a pint” of alcohol.
Shortly after, Bedford dispatch received a 911 call reporting that Townsend appeared to be passed out. When IU Health EMS arrived on the scene, Townsend reportedly began shouting profanities at both officers and medical personnel. He was subsequently taken into custody and transported to IU Health Bedford Hospital for medical clearance.
While at the hospital, Townsend continued to shout profanities despite being repeatedly asked to stop. After being medically cleared, Townsend allegedly refused to walk, despite having previously stated he could, and had to be carried from the hospital bed to a wheelchair and then into the patrol vehicle. Upon arrival at the Lawrence County Jail, Townsend again refused to walk and had to be carried inside.
Officers also noted that they had responded to a previous call involving Townsend earlier that day, where he had refused to leave a female’s residence and was transported to IU Health Bedford Hospital due to intoxication. Hospital staff informed officers that Townsend had left the hospital against medical advice approximately an hour before the incident at Harbor Freight.
Based on these incidents, Officer Ratcliff established probable cause to arrest Townsend on charges of public intoxication, disorderly conduct, and resisting law enforcement. He was transported to the Lawrence County Jail.
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.
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