BEDFORD, Ind. — June 29, 2023
A Bedford man was arrested on Wednesday following an investigation into drug activity by the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office and Indiana State Police Drug Enforcement Section. The suspect, identified as 38-year-old Douglas Harlan, was found to be involved in drug-related activities, according to the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.
The investigation was initiated after law enforcement officers received tips regarding Harlan’s alleged involvement in drug-related activities. On Wednesday afternoon, around 3:00 pm, Harlan was spotted driving a vehicle northbound on SR 37 by ISP DES Detective Caleb Garvin and Lawrence County Sheriff Greg Day. Harlan was observed committing multiple traffic violations, including speeding and failing to signal a lane change.
In response to the observed violations, Sheriff Day conducted a traffic stop of Harlan on Trogden Lane, just off of SR 37. During the traffic stop, Lawrence County Officer Joshua Rhoades and Capt. Andrew Phillips arrived at the scene to provide assistance. Officer Rhoades deployed his canine, Dusty, who gave a positive alert on Harlan’s vehicle.
Subsequently, a search of the vehicle was conducted. During the search, officers discovered digital scales with methamphetamine residue on them. Additionally, approximately 9 grams of methamphetamine were found in Harlan’s possession.
As a result, Harlan was taken into custody and transported to the Lawrence County Jail. He has been charged with Possession of Methamphetamine Between 5 and 10 Grams, a Level 5 Felony.
All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
