Routine traffic stop yields impaired driver and marijuana

A Tuesday evening traffic stop landed an Indianapolis man in the Putnam County Jail on drug and traffic charges.

At 10:30 p.m., Indiana State Police Trooper James Crisp stopped a 2005 Chevrolet on U.S. 231 just south of US 40 for a defective license plate light.

During conversation with the driver, Trooper Crisp noticed an open alcoholic beverage container in the vehicle's console and the smell of suspected marijuana coming from the vehicle's interior. A search of the vehicle revealed a small bag of suspected marijuana (under 10 grams) under the driver's seat.

The driver, 30-year-old Anthony J. Dodson, failed roadside field sobriety testing and was taken to the Putnam County Hospital for a chemical test. He tested positive for marijuana and benzodiazepines.

Dodson was incarcerated in the Putnam County Jail on charges of operating a vehicle with a Schedule I or II controlled substance with a prior conviction, possession of marijuana and operating a vehicle with a suspended license with a prior conviction.

Assisting were ISP Trooper Jonathan Cumbie and Cloverdale Police Officer James Martin.