LAWRENCE CO. – A Mitchell man faces multiple felony drug charges after a traffic stop on State Road 37 in Lawrence County on Tuesday, April 1.
According to a probable cause affidavit filed by Indiana State Police Trooper Ben Burris, Michael W. Cain, 61, of 2093 Spice Valley Road, was arrested after a search of his vehicle allegedly revealed methamphetamine, cocaine, drug paraphernalia, and a handgun.
Trooper Burris stated in the affidavit that he was traveling northbound on State Road 37 near Stevens Lane in an unmarked patrol vehicle around 12:47 p.m. when he observed a blue 1999 Ford F250 pickup truck with an Indiana trailer license plate. Trooper Burris initiated a traffic stop.
Upon contacting the driver, who was verbally identified as Michael Cain, Trooper Burris noted that while Cain initially answered questions about his vehicle clearly and made eye contact, his demeanor changed when asked if anything was illegal inside. Cain reportedly avoided eye contact and was evasive. Based on his training and experience, Trooper Burris stated this behavior was unusual and requested consent to search the vehicle, which Cain allegedly granted after being advised of his Pirtle rights.
During the search of the vehicle, Trooper Burris reported finding a glass smoking device and a metal cap in the center console. In the back seat, he allegedly located a black scale with crystal residue, a cut corner bag also containing crystal residue and a Ruger handgun. The residue on the scale field-tested positive for methamphetamine.
After being read his Miranda rights, Cain reportedly began shaking and informed Trooper Burris that he was having a seizure. An ambulance was called to the scene, and EMTs transported Cain to IU Health Bedford Hospital for medical attention.
Later, Cain was transferred to IU Health Bloomington. Sergeant William Bueckers, an officer at the Bloomington hospital, contacted the Indiana State Police post, advising that illegal drugs and cash were discovered in Cain’s clothing. Trooper Curtis Wilder retrieved these items, which allegedly included approximately 50 grams of methamphetamine in various bags, approximately 4 grams of cocaine, and $2,295.41.
The affidavit also notes that Cain has a pending felony criminal case in Lawrence County on charges of possession of meth, public intoxication, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Based on the findings, Trooper Burris stated he has probable cause to believe that Cain committed the offenses of dealing in methamphetamine, a Level 2 felony, possession of methamphetamine, a Level 3 felony, possession of cocaine, a Level 5 felony, unlawful carrying of a handgun, a Class A misdemeanor, and possession of drug paraphernalia, a Class C misdemeanor.
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.
