Ag vandalism leads to multiple arrests, drug charges

Franklin County, In. — A report of vandalism in farm fields led to four arrests and a drug seizure.

In the early evening of Tuesday, August 29 police began an investigation in the northeast portion of Franklin County. Police quickly identified a blue vehicle as the vehicle responsible in the Bath State Bank parking lot.

During the investigation deputies determined Ralph Taylor, 34, of New Trenton, Chad Fenker, 18, of Batesville, and a 15-year old juvenile were taking turns driving their truck through the fields. Police suspected Taylor may have been under the influence of alcohol.

As the investigation continued deputies learned the suspects were traveling West College Corner to allegedly purchase marijuana. Police obtained a search warrant for the address and found multiple drugs and paraphernalia. A 17-year-old juvenile, Alex Osborne and Crystal Osborne were arrested at that location.

Ralph Taylor has been charged with operating while intoxicated over .15 BAC, driving while suspended and criminal mischief. Fenker has been charged with criminal mischief and driving without ever obtaining a license. The 15-year-old was charged with criminal mischief and was released to his parents. Alex Osborne has been charged with maintaining a common nuisance, possession of methamphetamine, possession of cocaine, possession of marijuana and possession of paraphernalia. Crystal Osborne has been charged with possession of marijuana, possession of methamphetamine, maintaining a common nuisance and possession of paraphernalia. A 17-year-old was charged with dealing in marijuana and released to his family.