Columbus man arrested after traffic stop and discovers drugs, paraphernalia and cash

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

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

• Methamphetamine trafficking
• Possession of methamphetamine
• Trafficking in controlled substances
• Possession of a controlled substance
• Possession of marijuana
• Possession of utensils.

The press release states that a deputy with the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office stopped a speeding car on US 31 near the intersection with N 550 W on Tuesday. Officials said that during the stop, a passenger, later identified as Hayes, “exhibited noticeably nervous behavior.”

The officer, along with a sniffer dog, sniffed freely around the vehicle and the sniffer dog indicated drugs in the vehicle. According to the press release, Hayes’ backpack was found in the vehicle, which allegedly contained:

• Methamphetamine
• Packaging materials
• Scale
• Smoking devices
• marijuana
• Oxycodone pills
• Almost $3,000 in cash.

Officials said Hayes is currently in custody for 48 hours. The office continues to investigate the incident.