Tippecanoe County – Early this morning, just after 3:00 a.m., Trooper Miramontes was patrolling Interstate 65 near the 172 mile marker. Trooper Miramontes stopped a 2018 silver Dodge Charger for traveling above the posted speed limit.
While speaking with the driver, Trooper Miramontes smelled the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle and noticed indicators that criminal activity might be afoot. Trooper Miramontes identified the passenger to be John Vinson, 31, from Crown Point, IN. Vinson initially provided troopers with a false identification card.
During a subsequent search of the vehicle, troopers located a rifle, suspected marijuana, and a digital scale. During the investigation, troopers were able to determine that Vinson was in possession of the rifle and marijuana. Vinson was arrested and transported to Tippecanoe County Jail. The driver of the vehicle was cited and released from the scene.
After further investigation, troopers discovered that Vinson had active warrants for his arrest out of Tippecanoe County and Marion County.
Arrested and preliminary charges:
- John Vinson, 31, from Crown Point, IN
- Possession of a Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon – Level 4 Felony
- Identity Deception – Level 6 Felony
- Dealing Marijuana – Level 6 Felony
- Possession of Marijuana – Prior – Level 6 Felony
- Possession of a False Government Identification – Class A Misdemeanor
- Refusal to Identify – Class C Misdemeanor
Trooper Miramontes was assisted on the scene by troopers from the Lafayette Post.
*All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
