Indiana State Police Arrest Bedford Man for Dealing Methamphetamine

Local Sources - On Thursday, December 2, 2021, the Indiana State Police Bloomington District A.C.E.S. (Aggressive Criminal Enforcement Section) and Indiana State Police Drug Enforcement Section concluded another lengthy investigation by making an arrest for dealing methamphetamine. 

Over the course of the past few months, ISP received multiple tips and information that Devin A. Smale, 34 years old of Bedford, was involved in dealing large quantities of methamphetamine in and around Lawrence County.

Acting on these tips, ISP launched an investigation that included a plethora of investigative techniques which helped establish probable cause into the dealing allegations. 

Thursday afternoon, around 1:30 pm, an undercover ISP detective observed Smale driving a 2004 Chrysler and committing multiple traffic infractions. Trooper Chance Humphrey and Sgt. Greg Day conducted a traffic stop on Smale near the intersection of SR 158 and SR 450.

As Smale was coming to a stop, he was observed leaning over as if he was hiding something on the passenger side of the car. In addition, other indicators of criminal activity were observed, so troopers requested a canine. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Officer Michael Williams arrived and deployed his K-9, Fleck, who gave a positive alert on the Chrysler.

During a search of the vehicle, troopers located a black zippered bag that contained over 7 grams of methamphetamine, digital scales, and plastic baggies for packaging. ISP arrested Smale and incarcerated him at the Lawrence County Jail for the following charges,

• Dealing Methamphetamine Between 5 and 10 Grams (Level 3 Felony) 
• Possession of Methamphetamine Over 3 Grams (Level 5 Felony)

Sgt. Day praised the work of all involved investigators, Officer Williams with K-9 Fleck, and the citizens who had given tips. Sgt. Day stated, “This investigation is yet another example of what a difference can be made when everyone works together. Thanks to the citizen tips, the assistance of Officer Williams and Fleck, and the diligence of all involved ISP troopers, this case has taken a large source of methamphetamine out of our community.”