Police: Walmart theft leads to drug charges

(NORTH VERNON, Ind.) – An investigation into theft at the North Vernon Walmart led police to finding methamphetamine and fentanyl.

Police say James Parker, of Dupont, attempted to steal $600 worth of goods from the store on Monday. 

A Jennings County deputy and a Wal-Mart Asset Protection Officer were investigating the matter when Parker asked his girlfriend, Ashley Rippey, to come to their location. 

“During the course of the investigation it was determined that Ashley had been previously trespassed from Wal-Mart property, she was detained as well,” police said. 

Police also developed suspicion of drug use and had a K9 sniff the vehicle that Parker and Rippey had been in. 

The search led to the discovery of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and numerous pieces of paraphernalia, police said. 

Parker was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of a Syringe, Theft and Possession of Paraphernalia. 

Rippey was charged with Trafficking into a Penal Facility, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Narcotics, Possession of a Syringe, Criminal Trespassing, and Possession of Paraphernalia.