A traffic stop leads to drug dealing charges in North Vernon.

A spokesperson with the North Vernon Police Department (NVPD) says that at approximately 11:45 a.m. on Monday, Sgt. Andrew Richmond

noticed a vehicle that he says committed a moving violation. Richmond pulled the car over, then reports that he became suspicious of possible criminal activity. He then radioed for back-up before utilizing his K9 “Heros” to sniff around the vehicle. Police say that Heros alerted officers to the odor of illegal drugs coming from inside the vehicle. NVPD officials say that a search of the vehicle ensued, resulting in the discovery of syringes, scales, packaging materials and other paraphernalia.

Police allege that the driver, 19-year-old Joshua A. Matteson, of North Vernon, was found to be in possession of a small amount of methamphetamine. They say that Matteson was arrested on preliminary charges of:

Dealing in Methamphetamine (Level 5 Felony);
Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony);
Possession of a Syringe (Level 6 Felony);
Possession of Paraphernalia (Class “A” Misdemeanor)

Matteson was booked in the Jennings County Jail. Bond information was not immediately available.