Sunday at approximately 10:40p, Trooper Vennekotter was patrolling US 41 near Oak Street in Fort Branch when he stopped the driver of a 2005 Chevrolet Trailblazer for driving 64 mph in a 50 mph zone.
When Trooper Vennekotter approached the vehicle, he detected a strong odor of burnt marijuana inside the vehicle.
The driver was identified as Larry Morris, 49, and his passenger was identified as Sarah Ellingson, 29, both from Evansville.
A Gibson County sheriff’s deputy arrived to assist.
While officers searched the vehicle, they located a .380 Ruger pistol, a corner baggie containing suspected meth, a corner baggie containing a white residue, and drug paraphernalia.
Morris and Ellingson were arrested and taken to the Gibson County Jail where they are currently being held on bond.
Arrested and Charges:
Larry Morris, 49, Evansville, IN
- Possession of Methamphetamine, Level 6 Felony
- Possession of Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor
Sarah Ellingson, 29, Evansville, IN
- Possession of Methamphetamine with a Firearm, Level 5 Felony
- Possession of a Handgun without a Permit, Class A Misdemeanor
- Possession of Paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor
Arresting Officer: Trooper Alex Vennekotter, Indiana State Police
Assisting Agency: Gibson County Sheriff’s Office
