Howard County Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Arrest

KOKOMO, IN - Monday at approximately 12:05 a.m., Indiana State Police Trooper Josh Rozzi initiated a traffic stop on a 2001 Pontiac on Boulevard Street west of U.S. 31 for failure to signal a turn.   During the traffic stop, Trooper Rozzi requested a police drug dog.

Howard County Sheriff’s Deputy Mike Ogle and his police drug dog Rudy responded and conducted an exterior search of the Pontiac. Rudy indicated the presence of illegal narcotics in the car. A subsequent interior search by officers revealed approximately 130 grams of suspected marijuana hidden in the vehicle’s console.

Suspected marijuana was also found in the pocket of the driver, Joshua C. Benham, 18, Kokomo, IN. Benham was arrested on felony charges for possession of marijuana over 30 grams and dealing marijuana. He also faces misdemeanor charges for possession of drug paraphernalia and operating a vehicle while impaired on a controlled substance. He was incarcerated in the Howard County Jail with a bond of $10,000.

“This is a classic example of police agencies combining resources and working together to remove illegal narcotics from Indiana roadways,” stated Trooper Rozzi.” Deputy Ogle and Rudy help find hidden drugs which otherwise might not been found.” 

Trooper Rozzi was also assisted by Howard County Sheriff’s Deputy Jordan Buckley. 

Citizens are requested to report suspected illegal drug activity by calling the anonymous Indiana State Police Marijuana Tip Line 1-888-873-1694.

Source: Indiana State Police