At approximately 10:30 p.m. on February 9, Whitestown Metropolitan Police Department (WMPD) Officers attempted to stop a white Grand Cherokee on northbound Interstate 65. The vehicle fled (northbound on I-65) from Officers, and a vehicle pursuit ensued. During the pursuit, 21 lbs. of vacuum sealed marijuana were thrown out the window and onto the interstate, which was later recovered by law enforcement.
Lebanon Police Department assisted and deployed tire deflation devices near the 140 mile-marker, which successfully struck and deflated multiple tires from the suspect vehicle. WMPD officers along with Lebanon Police Department, Zionsville Police Department, Boone County Sherriff’s Office, and Thorntown Police Department conducted a high-risk vehicle stop, successfully and safely apprehending the two fleeing suspects.
The following items were seized in accordance with the investigation:
1. 21 Pounds of Marijuana
2. 1 Gold Plated Draco Pistol chambered in 7.62×39
3. 1 Draco magazine loaded with 7.62×39 ammunition.
The driver of the vehicle, Joshua U. Mancia of Lafayette Indiana, and the passenger, Richard H. Gonzalez of Lafayette Indiana were taken into custody on the following recommended charges:
1. Dealing in Marijuana – Level 6 Felony
2. Resisting Law Enforcement – Level 6 Felony
3. Possession of Marijuana – B Misdemeanor