Speeding in a Construction Zone Leads to Drug Arrest

PERU, IN - On the morning of Wednesday, May 20, 2009, at approximately 8:10 a.m., Indiana State Police Senior Trooper Joe Swisher initiated a traffic stop on a 2004 Ken Worth tractor trailer that was allegedly traveling 72 miles per hour in a construction zone that is posted for 50 miles per hour. Swisher stopped the truck near the construction zone on U.S. 31 south of U.S. 24. A criminal check revealed the driver, Mark S. Fellows, 46, Haines City, FL, was wanted by the state of Florida for a probation violation related to a prior drug arrest. 

Further investigation by Swisher, with assistance from Trooper Bart Stouffer and Trooper Mike Tomson, led officers to search the Ken Worth. Officers allegedly found a handgun, methamphetamine, marijuana, and schedule IV prescription pills. Fellows is incarcerated in the Miami County Jail with no bond. He was also cited for exceeding the posted speed limit. 

Indiana State Police Sergeant Tony Knox and his police dog Kody also assisted Senior Trooper Swisher during the traffic stop. 

CHARGES:

• Possession of methamphetamine (under three grams), class D felony
• Possession of a handgun by a convicted felon, class C felony
• Possession of schedule IV prescription pills, class D felony
• Possession of a handgun without a permit, class A misdemeanor
• Possession of marijuana (under 30 grams), class A misdemeanor

 
Summer time is construction season in Indiana. Motorists are encouraged to follow all posted speed limits. Troopers will closely monitor construction zones for speeding and aggressive motorists. If a violation is observed, a citation will be issued.