MITCHELL – A Mitchell man was arrested on Wednesday, April 9th, after allegedly being found in possession of more than 10 grams of methamphetamine.
According to a Probable Cause Affidavit filed in Lawrence County, Jonathon K. Cleek, 32, was taken into custody following an encounter at a local gas station.
Indiana State Police Trooper Jesse Crane stated in the affidavit that he received information on April 9th at approximately 2:52 p.m. regarding the whereabouts of Jonathon K. Cleek, who was wanted on an outstanding warrant from Knox County, Indiana. Trooper Crane located a man matching Cleek’s description entering the 60’s Eastside gas station near State Road 60 and South 9th Street in Mitchell.
Upon entering the gas station, Trooper Crane confirmed the individual’s identity using Cleek’s Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles photograph and informed Cleek that he was under arrest for the outstanding warrant.
As Trooper Crane attempted to place Cleek’s right arm behind his back to apply handcuffs, Cleek allegedly pulled away slightly and leaned over the counter. Trooper Crane reported witnessing Cleek drop an item into the sink on the counter. After securing Cleek in handcuffs, Trooper Crane retrieved the item from the sink, which was identified as a Marlboro cigarette pack containing a plastic bag with a crystal substance.
Based on his training and 15 years of experience as a law enforcement officer, including eight years as a canine handler involved in numerous drug investigations, Trooper Crane recognized the substance as a controlled substance.
Cleek was escorted outside, where Trooper Crane advised him of his Miranda Rights. When questioned about the cigarette pack and its contents, Cleek allegedly admitted placing it in the sink and stated it belonged to him. He reportedly told Trooper Crane that he had the pack when he arrived at the gas station and that it was for personal use. When asked about the large quantity for personal use, Cleek allegedly stated it was because he was “pretty much homeless” and that the pack contained fourteen grams of methamphetamine.
During transport to the Lawrence County Jail, Trooper Crane confirmed the weight with Cleek, who again stated there were 14 grams of methamphetamine.
Jonathon K. Cleek was incarcerated at the Lawrence County Jail on the outstanding warrant from Knox County and has been formally charged with possession of methamphetamine greater than 10 grams, a Level 4 Felony.
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.
