Brookville, IN — Jurors in Franklin County have convicted a Connersville man on felony drug charges – despite the defendant’s absence during the trial.
45-year-old Steven Lakes was found guilty of Dealing in Methamphetamine and Possession of Methamphetamine, along with several misdemeanor counts.
The charges stemmed from a traffic stop by Brookville Police in March 2021, in which Lakes was arrested after officers reportedly smelled marijuana and a search of his vehicle turned up drugs and paraphernalia.
Investigators say Lakes admitted during a recorded interview at the Franklin County Law Enforcement Center to buying the drugs in Cincinnati with the intent to distribute them in Connersville.
Lakes posted bond in February but did not appear for his trial date. However, he did show up for several pre-trial hearings in early August.
He was reminded of his trial date by Franklin Circuit Judge Steven Cox, who told him that the trial would take place whether or not he was in court.
Under Indiana law, a trial-in-absentia can move forward in a criminal case when a Defendant has been notified in open court of the trial date and fails to appear.
The State was represented at the trial by Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Molly Brier. Franklin County Prosecutor Huerkamp says she was able to secure the conviction despite several unusual twists and turns due to her hard work, legal knowledge, and preparation.
Huerkamp also acknowledged the drug interdiction work on the part of the arresting Brookville Police Officers.
Upon conviction, Judge Cox issued a warrant for Lakes’ arrest.
Lakes will be sentenced when he’s rounded up and faces anywhere from three to 16 years in prison.
Huerkamp urged anyone who knows Lakes’ whereabouts to contact local law enforcement.
