On August 20, 2025, just after 11:30 p.m., Trooper Brandon Howell and Trooper Schroder conducted a traffic stop on a Chevrolet Malibu for a traffic violation on State Road 26 near Interstate 65. The driver was identified as Mahlon Justice, 33, of West Lafayette.
During the course of the stop, Trooper Howell observed indicators of possible criminal activity. He requested the assistance of a Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Department K-9, which gave a positive indication for the presence of narcotics inside the vehicle.
A subsequent search of the Malibu resulted in the discovery of suspected methamphetamine, hypodermic syringes, and a firearm. Further investigation by Trooper Howell led him to believe that Justice was operating the vehicle under the influence of a controlled substance. Justice was taken into custody and transported to the Tippecanoe County Jail.
The suspected methamphetamine will be sent to the Indiana State Police Laboratory for confirmation and analysis.
Arrested and Preliminary Charges:
Mahlon Justice, 33, West Lafayette
Felon in Possession of a Firearm – Level 5 Felony
Possession of Methamphetamine – Level 6 Felony
Possession of a Hypodermic Syringe – Level 6 Felony
Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated – Endangerment – Class A Misdemeanor
Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated with a Controlled Substance – Class C Misdemeanor
Trooper Howell was assisted by other troopers from the Lafayette Post and the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.