Arrest of a man on drug charges following a traffic stop
Van Wert County Sheriff Thomas M. Riggenbach announced the arrest of a man on drug charges following a traffic stop on Monday 12/09/2013. Sheriff Riggenbach stated that information was given to his office from the Van Wert City Police Department about 2 local men who had allegedly gone to Dayton to get heroin.
Sheriff Riggenbach advised that deputies located a vehicle matching the description that was given, heading toward Van Wert. Deputies were able to stop the vehicle for multiple traffic violations. During the traffic stop the Van Wert Police Department K-9 was called to assist at the scene.
Sheriff Riggenbach stated deputies located a moderate amount of heroin on the driver of the vehicle. The driver, David A. Leaser, age 37 of Van Wert, was arrested and charged with 1 count of Possession of Heroin, a Felony of the 4th degree. Leaser was taken to the Van Wert County Correctional Facility where he is being held until he is arraigned in Van Wert Municipal Court. The second man in the truck was not charged and was released.
Sheriff Riggenbach stated the investigation is continuing into this matter and additional charges may be filed.
The Van Wert County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Van Wert City Police Department and the West Central Ohio Crime Task Force in this investigation. The West Central Ohio Crime Task Force is comprised of officers from the Van Wert County Sheriff’s Office, Allen County Sheriff’s Office, Lima Police Department, Paulding County Sheriff’s Office and multiple State & Federal Agencies. The task force operates within a multi-county area to combat drug and major crimes.
Sheriff Riggenbach asks that anyone who has information on drug activity contact the Van Wert County Sheriff’s Office. People with information can call 419-238-3866 or use the Van Wert County Sheriff’s Office website www.vanwertcountysheriff.com and click on the “Submit a Crime Tip” link. Anyone reporting information can remain anonymous.
People can also report information on other crimes by using the above options or by contacting Van Wert County Crime Stoppers at 419-238-STOP. People can also remain anonymous when contacting Crime Stoppers.