Full Notification

Henry County – A routine stop for an inspection ended up with the truck driver going to jail for possession of Methamphetamine. Today shortly after 12:30 p.m., Pendleton Trooper Kris Martin was working traffic on I-70, just west of the New Lisbon exit around the 129 mile marker, when he stopped an east bound bob tail semi to do a D.O.T. inspection of the vehicle.

After getting the vehicle stopped just short of the New Lisbon exit at the 131 mile marker east bound, Martin found the driver’s log book was not up to date. Speaking with the driver further, Martin became suspicious. Further investigation revealed there was Methamphetamine and paraphernalia in the truck.

The driver, Michael Fender, age 53 of Smyrna Tennessee, was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine, and Possession of Paraphernalia, both “A” Misdemeanors. Fender was lodged in the Henry County Jail.

The Indiana State Police will have additional troopers patrolling Indiana roadways during this upcoming holiday period. Troopers will be targeting impaired drivers, motorists who speed, follow too closely, make unsafe lane changes, drive aggressively and fail to buckle up or properly restrain their children.

The Indiana State Police encourage all motorists to observe the following safety tips:

•Obey all speed limits and always use your turn signals.
•Never drink and drive-If celebrating make sure to have a designated driver.
•Make sure everyone is buckled up and children are properly restrained in child seats.
•Always watch for and expect slowed or stopped traffic ahead, especially when approaching construction zones.
•When stopped in traffic be watchful of traffic approaching from behind and be ready to take evasive action if it appears traffic is approaching too fast to stop.
•If you’re planning to travel a long distance, make sure you are well rested. A fatigued driver is as dangerous as an impaired driver..
•Avoid tailgating. Remember the two-second rule, and increase following distance in construction zones.

Motorists are encouraged to report suspected impaired drivers by calling 9-1-1. Give a vehicle description, location, and direction of travel. Never follow an impaired driver.

All Suspects Are Presumed Innocent Until Proven Guilty in a Court of Law