Traffic stop nets 3 pounds of marijuana

Van Wert independent/VWSO information

Van Wert County Sheriff Thomas M. Riggenbach announced that several pounds of suspected marijuana were seized during a traffic stop.

On Monday, a sheriff’s deputy initiated a traffic stop for a speeding violation. During the traffic stop, the Sheriff’s Office’s K-9, Kane, was used and gave a positive alert on the vehicle.  A search of the vehicle was then conducted, and the deputy located approximately three pounds of suspected marijuana.

Sheriff Riggenbach stated the West Central Ohio Crime Task Force was then notified, and the driver of the vehicle, Joshua D. Roberts, 31, of Van Wert, was taken to the Sheriff’s Office, where he was questioned by task force agents.

According to Sheriff Riggenbach, members of the West Central Ohio Crime Task Force then conducted a search warrant at 706 Elm St. in Van Wert. Found inside the residence a moderate amount of both marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

Sheriff Riggenbach advised that several adults and small children were present at the residence when the search warrant was executed.

Roberts was cited for speed, but Sheriff Riggenbach said the investigation is continuing and additional charges may be filed.

The sheriff asked that anyone having information on drug activity or other crimes contact his office by calling 419.238.3866 or go to the Sheriff’s Office’s website at www.vanwertcountysheriff.com and click the “Submit a Crime Tip” link.

Area residents can also report information on crimes by contacting Van Wert County Crime Stoppers at 419.238.STOP.  Sheriff Riggenbach reminds people that they can remain anonymous when reporting information.

The West Central Ohio Crime Task Force is comprised of agents from the Allen County, Van Wert County and Paulding County Sheriff’s Offices, Lima Police Department, and multiple state and federal agencies.  The task force operates in a multi-county area to combat drugs and major crimes.