Fountain County: On March 2, 2024, just before 9:30 p.m., Trooper Howell was patrolling the area of Interstate 74 near the 23-mile marker. Trooper Howell stopped a 2011 Subaru Outback for an equipment violation. The Subaru driver was later identified as Roger Fiebrantz, 71, from Rockford, IL.
While speaking with Fiebrantz, Trooper Howell smelled the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. Trooper Howell conducted a search of the Subaru and its occupants. During the search, Trooper Howell located suspected methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.
During Trooper Howell's investigation, he developed information that led him to believe that Fiebrantz was operating a vehicle under the influence. Fiebrantz and the two other occupants of the Subaru were transported to Fountain County Jail.
Arrested and preliminary charges:
- Roger Fiebrantz, 71, from Rockford, IL
- Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated - Endangerment - Class A Misdemeanor
- Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated - Class C Misdemeanor
- Michael Venegoni, 55, Overland, MO
- Possession of Methamphetamine - Level 4 Felony
- Possession of Marijuana - Class B Misdemeanor
- Shelly Morgan, 45, Granite City, IL
- Possession of Methamphetamine - Level 4 Felony
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia - Class A Misdemeanor
Trooper Howell was assisted on the scene by the Fountain County Sheriff's Office and the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office.
*All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.