Traffic Stop nets Drugs/Handgun/Cash

 
Michigan City (LaPorte County)-- For the second time in as many nights, an Indiana State Trooper made a routine traffic stop that leads to marijuana and drugs being taken off the streets.  On 5/9/17 at approximately midnight, Trooper Justin Heflin initiated a traffic stop a silver Dodge Durango for what he thought was going to be a routine traffic stop for failing to stop at a stop sign near Woodland/Cherry St. in Michigan City.  As the traffic stop was initiated, the driver, later identified as Ryan Thomas, 26, Trail Creek, exited his vehicle without being asked to.  Thomas then fled from the scene on foot as the Trooper approached.  Following a brief foot pursuit in the area of Dewey Street, the subject was taken into custody.  Upon returning to the vehicle, Trooper Heflin observed on the floorboard of the Durango a black handgun as well as a clear plastic bag that contained what the Trooper believed to be Marijuana.  Two additional passengers remained seated in the vehicle during the foot pursuit.  Both of the passengers denied knowledge of the items and stated they had just been picked up by the driver which is why they remained in the vehicle.  The driver also denied knowledge of the items.  Trooper Heflin then identified the handgun as a Glock 9mm pistol which was loaded with ammunition at the time of the stop. 
Mr. Thomas was then transported to the LaPorte County Jail.  The passengers were allowed to leave the scene.  Once at the jail a large amount of U.S. Currency was recovered from Thomas.  Mr. Thomas was then booked into the LaPorte County Jail with the following charges: 
Felon in possession of firearm: Level 5 Felony

Dealing in marijuana (prior): Level 6 Felony

Possession of marijuana (prior): Level 6 Felony

Battery on Law Enforcement: Level 6 Felony

Resisting Law Enforcement: Class A-Misdemeanor

Handgun no permit: Class A-Misdemeanor 

 *All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law*
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