Four people were arrested on multiple drug-related charges after two traffic stops resulted in police serving a search warrant at a Columbus home.
Columbus police stopped a vehicle near Eighth Street and Lafayette Avenue at 9:45 p.m. Tuesday for a minor traffic violation, said Lt. Matt Harris, Columbus Police Department spokesman.
The officers spoke with the driver, Jeremy D. Hedger, 43, Columbus, Harris said. A police canine alerted to the odor of narcotics inside Hedger’s vehicle and a search of the vehicle turned up several clear plastic bags, some containing methamphetamine and heroin.
At 10:50 p.m., Columbus police stopped a vehicle for a minor traffic violation near Ninth and Pearl streets. Officers identified the driver as Steven J. Freiner, 35, Columbus, Harris said. Officers noted Freiner appeared very nervous and a Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Department canine alerted to the odor of narcotics in the vehicle, Harris said. During a search of the vehicle, police found methamphetamine, prescription medication and drug paraphernalia, Harris said. Officers learned that Freiner had just left a resident that Hedger owns.
Shortly before midnight, officers served a search warrant on the residence in the 800 block of Sycamore Street. When searching the residence, officers found heroin, drug paraphernalia including digital scales and a stolen computer tablet, Harris said. Officers arrested Ashley L. Parrott, 30, Columbus, who lives at the home with Hedger, Harris said.
When searching the premises, a man who identified himself as Daniel P. Frodge, 34, Shelbyville, knocked on the door. When Frodge entered the residence, he was detained after officers determined there was a Bartholomew County warrant for his arrest, Harris said. When searching Frodge, officers found a syringe inside his jacket.
Hedger was charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of heroin and driving while suspended with a prior conviction.
Freiner was charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance.
Parrott was charged with possession of heroin, maintaining a common nuisance and theft.
Frodge was charged with possession of a legend drug injection device and a warrant.
For more on this story, see Thursday’s Republic.
