ROSS COUNTY, Ohio — On July 25, 2024, Deputy Jacob Johansen conducted a traffic stop on Massieville Road near Moss Hollow Road, leading to the arrest of a suspect for tampering with evidence. The incident also resulted in citations for speeding and other traffic violations.
Deputy Johansen, while stationed on Massieville Road near Hughes Lane, spotted a 2010 gray Toyota Corolla traveling southbound at a high speed. Radar confirmed the vehicle was going 66 mph in a 40 mph zone. The deputy attempted to pull over the vehicle, which briefly accelerated before continuing southbound.
As the vehicle slowed down, Johansen observed the driver, later identified as Albert Penrod, throw a small white object out the window. The deputy then approached Penrod, who was found to be frantically searching inside the car.
Upon investigation, Deputy Johansen recovered a small plastic wrap containing a white crystal-like substance from the spot where Penrod had discarded the item. Penrod was subsequently removed from his vehicle, handcuffed, and placed in the rear of Deputy Stanley’s cruiser.
A search of the vehicle yielded no additional evidence, but Penrod’s cell phone was confiscated for potential further investigation regarding the narcotics’ point of sale. Penrod was transported to the Ross County Jail by Deputy Stanley and booked on charges of tampering with evidence. He was also cited for speeding, driving under suspension, and having expired registration.
Further charges may be filed pending the results of laboratory tests on the seized substance.
