An Edinburgh man who is facing nearly 40 years in prison is wanted after he skipped his sentencing hearing for two meth dealing cases.
Michael Paul Riddle, 36, was set to be sentenced Monday in Johnson County Circuit Court, but is now on the run. The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office and Central Indiana Crimestoppers are seeking the public’s help in locating him.
For a case filed Jan. 29, Riddle was sentenced to 22 years for conspiracy to possess with intent to deliver methamphetamine, a Level 2 felony, all executed, with credit for 243 days served, according to court documents.
For a separate case filed April 30, Riddle was sentenced to 17.5 years for possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine, also a Level 2 felony; six years for possession of a handgun with an altered serial number, a Level 5 felony; and one year for possession of a handgun without a license, a misdemeanor, court documents show.
Circuit Court Judge Andrew Roesener ordered that the time for both cases be served consecutively, or one after another, according to court documents. Roesener also ordered that Riddle’s altered Taurus Millennium G2 9mm handgun be forfeited to the sheriff’s office for destruction, documents said.
Riddle was released on $66,000 bond Sept. 18, and was told to report back to the jail Monday to appear via video for his sentencing hearing, according to online court records.
A warrant for failure to appear was issued Tuesday.
Sheriff Duane Burgess said deputies were out Thursday searching several locations where Riddle may be. The sheriff’s office is working with the U.S. Marshall’s Office, and they are following up on several tips, he said.
Anonymous tips reported to Crimestoppers that lead to Riddle’s arrest could be eligible for a $1,000 reward. Tips may be submitted with the P3Tips mobile application, by phone at 317-262-8477, or online at crimetips.org or p3tips.com.
The public may also submit tips directly to the sheriff’s office by calling 317-346-4654.
Riddle is described as a white male, 5 feet 7 inches tall, 165 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes, according to a Crimestoppers news release.
