At approximately 5:50 p.m. Friday, Deputies with the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office received a report of suspicious activity at a residence on South Gopher Drive, near County Road 200 South.
Upon arrival, Deputy Nick Light located three adult males outside the residence. After making contact with the individuals, Light detected the odor of marijuana. Sergeant Joey Mitchell arrived and learned the home owner was on house arrest. K9 Gunny was deployed on a vehicle at the residence and alerted to the presence of illegal drugs. Community Corrections searched the residence, with the assistance of Deputies. Officers located marijuana, scales and baggies.
Arrested was 24-year-old Ruben Sanchez for Dealing Marijuna, Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Paraphernalia along with 27-year-old Ernesto Bautista-Leon for Visiting a Common Nuisance, Possession of Marijuana and Wanted on Clinton County Warrant. Official charges are pending from the Clinton County Prosecutor’s Office.
The Sheriff’s Office has fielded numerous complaints regarding the activity in this neighborhood. Clinton County Sheriff Rich Kelly commends deputies for their diligence in patrolling the area and addressing the concerns of citizens.
“This is another great example of the cooperation between residents and law enforcement,” said Kelly. “I am very proud of the combined efforts of Sergeant Mitchell, Deputy Light, Deputy Blackwell and Community Corrections Officer Bruce Barney. I want to encourage anyone who suspects criminal activity in his/her neighborhood to contact our TIP LINE at 765-656-TIPS (8477). If you see something, say something!”