BEDFORD– Jessica D. Howard, a 35-year-old resident of Norman, Indiana, is facing multiple criminal charges following an incident on October 15, 2024, that led to a warrant being issued for her arrest and an investigation into child neglect and drug-related offenses.
According to a probable cause affidavit, deputies responded to a report of a woman walking with a child in the roadway on US 50 East near Leesville Road. The woman, later identified as Howard, was reportedly intoxicated and watching as her child walked in traffic. A caller to dispatch was able to remove the child from the road before emergency responders arrived.
LCPD Captain Lonnie Johnson and Officer Andrew Tillett responded to the scene, where they met Howard and her child at their residence on Norman Road. Upon questioning, Howard admitted to using methamphetamine earlier in the day but was unable to provide specific details about the drugs she had taken. During their investigation, officers observed evidence of drug use and paraphernalia at the residence, including smoking devices with burnt marijuana residue on a kitchen countertop.
Further investigation revealed a marijuana grow in the home, including a marijuana plant inside a growing tent in the master bedroom. Officers also found marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and marijuana seeds scattered throughout the residence. A search of the home, conducted with Howard’s consent, led to the discovery of additional drug-related items, including a scale, marijuana seeds, and trace amounts of marijuana in various containers. The total weight of the marijuana and marijuana seeds seized from the home was approximately 45 grams.
As part of the investigation, the Indiana Department of Child Services was contacted due to the child’s presence at home. DCS workers later reported that Howard had tested positive for THC and Benzodiazepines.
The information was forwarded to the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Office, and a warrant was issued for Howard’s arrest.
Howard was arrested at 2:50 p.m. on Friday, January 24th, and is facing several charges, including both felony and misdemeanor charges of dealing in marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, neglect of a dependent, and public intoxication.
Those facing criminal charges are considered innocent unless convicted through due legal proceedings. Accusations alone do not imply guilt; the judicial system will evaluate the presented evidence to reach a verdict.
