Two returning from fishing trip detained on alcohol and marijuana charges

MITCHELL – Lawrence County Police Department deputies arrested two men after their vehicle was stopped on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at 1:55 a.m. for a faulty license plate light and no license plate.

When he spotted the van, Deputy Shaun Cabral was patrolling State Road 37 near US 50 West. The deputy followed the van and watched it change lanes on State Road 37 at Dixie Highway. After shifting lanes, the vehicle drifted over the fog line. The driver traveled over the fog line again while negotiating the curve just before crossing the White River bridge.

The deputy initiated a traffic stop.

William Lamb

The driver, William Lamb, 58, of Seymour, said he and his passenger, 28-year-old Cody Tapp, were returning from a fishing trip at Patoka Lake. Police said fishing poles, tackle boxes, and a cooler were in the vehicle.

Cody Tapp

Officer Crulo arrived to assist. Both officers said the men appeared to be nervous.

Lamb was asked to step out of the vehicle and sit in Officer Cabral’s police car. The officer could smell alcohol on Lamb’s breath. Lamb refused to then answer the officer’s questions or participate in field sobriety tests.

Tapp told police Lamb had consumed one or two beers.

Police requested a warrant for a blood draw. Lawrence County Circuit Court Judge Nikirk issued the warrant. Officer Atchison transported Lamb to IU Health Bedford Hospital.

The vehicle was then inventoried, where police found a metal grinder with marijuana inside and a baggy of marijuana in the center console. A tray containing marijuana was also found in the vehicle. The total amount of marijuana found was 28 grams.

Lamb was arrested on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Tapp is facing charges of possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.