WASHINGTON — A Washington man was arrested Friday morning following a traffic stop that led to the discovery of illegal drugs and forged license plates.
At approximately 10:17 a.m. on August 15, 2025, Indiana State Police Master Trooper Jarrod Lents stopped a Lincoln Navigator near Center Street and NE 11th Street for expired plates and a seatbelt violation. The driver was identified as Martin J. Hoevel, 50, of Washington.
During the stop, Trooper Lents noticed the temporary license plate had been altered and had expired in March. Hoevel was then arrested for forgery.
A subsequent search of Hoevel’s person revealed suspected methamphetamine. A search of the vehicle then led to the discovery of drug paraphernalia.
Hoevel was transported to the Daviess County Jail without incident. He is being held on bond and faces preliminary charges of forgery, a Level 6 felony, possession of meth, a Level 6 felony, and possession of drug paraphernalia, a Class A misdemeanor.
Senior Trooper Mitch Wier assisted in the incident.
