Muncie – Last evening around 8:30 p.m. Trooper Ryan Davis was working crash reduction patrol on State Road 332 when he clocked an east bound car that was speeding. Excessive speed is a top three cause of fatal crashes in Indiana.  He got the car stopped around CR 500 West, and after speaking with the driver and passenger, became suspicious.

A preliminary investigation revealed a bag containing marijuana in the car, and a bottle with two capsules believed to be a stimulant for which neither subject in the car had a prescription. Arrested was the driver, Harrison W. Bartel, age 22, of Indianapolis.

Bartel was charged with Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Substance, Class “D” Felony, and Possession of Marijuana under 30 grams, along with Possession of Paraphernalia, both Class “A” Misdemeanors.  In addition Bartel was issued a ticket for speeding, 70 M.P.H. in a 55 M.P.H. zone. He was lodged in the Delaware County Jail.

The Indiana State Police will continue to monitor the top causes for crashes around the state and concentrating enforcement efforts on these causes. This t traffic stop is an example of how “a routine traffic stop” can often lead to the discovery of criminal activity. Anyone with information about illegal drug use may call the Pendleton Post at 1-800-527-4752, or the Indiana State Police Drug Tip Line at 1-800-453-4756. Tips can be made and kept anonymous.

All criminal defendants are to be presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.