2 arrested following Venedocia drug bust
VW County Sheriff’s information
VENEDOCIA — Two people were arrested in connection with a search at a Venedocia residence on Thursday.
Randal D. Michaelson Jr., 26, of 19065 Plum St., Venedocia, was charged with one count of possession of heroin, a felony of the fifth degree, while Jacquelyn M. Forthman, 26, also of the same address, faces a charge of persistent disorderly conduct, a misdemeanor of the fourth degree.


Sheriff Thomas M. Riggenbach reported that the two were arrested as a result of a search conducted at their residence by deputies from his office, as well as Allen County sheriff’s deputies and members of the West Central Ohio Crime Task Force.
Sheriff Riggenbach said there were six adults and two children in the house when the search was conducted. All six adults were interviewed, but only Michaelson and Forthman have been charged at this time. Michaelson will make an initial appearance on the felony charge in Van Wert Municipal Court, while Forthman will be arraigned there on the misdemeanor count.
According to the sheriff, Van Wert County Children’s Services was also contacted concerning the two children and representatives of the agency were at the home to assess the situation.
Items found in the home related to the search include a moderate amount of suspected heroin, a small number of paper bindles, a moderate amount of what is suspected to be prescription medicine, a small amount of what is believed to be marijuana, drug paraphernalia, triple beam scales, cash and cell phones.
Sheriff Riggenbach said the investigation is continuing and additional charges may be filed, while a nuisance abatement letter was also sent to the owner of the property to inform that person of what occurred on the property. Property owners must take action aimed at lessening the chances of illegal activity occurring again at the house.
The sheriff also noted that anyone who has information on drug activity in Van Wert County can contact his office at 419.238.3866 or use his office’s website, www.vanwertcountysheriff.com, and click on the “submit a crime tip” link.
People can also report information to Van Wert County Crime Stoppers by calling 419.238.STOP. Those going online to make tips and those calling Crime Stoppers can do so anonymously.
The West Central Ohio Crime Task Force includes members of the Van Wert, Allen and Paulding County sheriff’s offices, Lima Police Department and several state and federal agencies.
POSTED: 04/03/15 at 4:17 pm. FILED UNDER: News