A traffic stop for a minor equipment violation led to the arrest of two people and the seizure of over 73 grams of suspected methamphetamine Saturday near Fremont, according to Indiana State Police.
Police said a probationary trooper observed a car with a “simple equipment violation” at State Road 120 and County Road 50 West. During the stop, the trooper spoke with the occupants and discovered evidence of possible drug possession.
After more officers arrived, a search of the vehicle allegedly revealed more than 73 grams of suspected meth.
Lydia Tuckerman, 25, of Bradenton, Florida, and Tyler Brown, 39, of Muncie, Indiana, were arrested on the scene. Both were charged with Level 3 felony possession of methamphetamine and Level 2 felony dealing with methamphetamine. Brown is also facing a misdemeanor charge of possession of paraphernalia.
The two were transported to the Steuben County Jail.
According to state police, the trooper had recently completed field training and was on one of his first solo patrols when arrested.
“This new trooper was present in his community, pro-active by making traffic stops for ‘simple’ equipment violations, and purpose-driven by further investigating what he saw during the traffic stop to make an impact,” ISP said in a statement. “Because of his efforts, the suspected methamphetamine is out of the Steuben County community.”