Columbus man arrested after traffic stop uncovers drugs, paraphernalia, cash

BARTHOLOMEW COUNTY, Ind. — A Columbus man was arrested on Tuesday after a traffic stop on U.S. 31 uncovered drugs as well as drug-related paraphernalia.

According to a news release from the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office, John Hayes was arrested on Tuesday on the following preliminary charges:

• Dealing in methamphetamine
• Possession of methamphetamine
• Dealing in a controlled substance
• Possession of a controlled substance
• Possession of marijuana
• Possession of Paraphernalia.

The release said that a deputy with the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office initiated a traffic stop on a speeding vehicle on U.S. 31 near the intersection with N 550 W on Tuesday. Officials said during the stop, a passenger who was later identified as Hayes “displayed notably nervous behavior.”

The deputy, along with a K9, conducted a free air sniff around the vehicle and the K9 indicated the presence of drugs inside the vehicle. According to the release, Hayes’ backpack was located inside the vehicle which reportedly contained:

• Methamphetamine
• Packaging materials
• Scales
• Smoking devices
• Marijuana
• Oxycodone pills
• Nearly $3,000 in cash.

Officials said that Hayes is currently in custody on a 48 hour hold. the office is continuing to investigate the incident.

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