CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — A routine traffic stop on December 2, 2024, led Chillicothe police to uncover methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, resulting in an ongoing investigation.
A patrol officer initiated the stop after observing a maroon Toyota, bearing Ohio license plate KKQ 1755, leaving a residence on East 2nd Street known for suspected narcotics activity. The vehicle failed to signal while pulling over on East 4th Street, prompting the traffic stop.
The vehicle had four occupants, including the driver, Jessica Ball, and passengers Dustin Withrow and Ronald Messinger. After receiving consent from Ball to search the vehicle, officers began their investigation.
During the search, one officer discovered a hypodermic needle near the passenger seat, establishing probable cause for a more thorough search. On Withrow, officers found a yellow baggie containing a white crystal substance, later identified by Withrow as methamphetamine. The gross approximate weight of the substance was 3.4 grams.
Additionally, a search of Messinger’s belongings revealed hollow tubes with residue, hypodermic needles, and burnt aluminum foil. These items were seized as evidence.
Ball received a verbal warning for failing to use a turn signal, and all occupants were released pending further investigation. Evidence collected at the scene was secured in Chillicothe Police Department’s evidence lockers, and lab results on the seized substances are awaited to determine potential charges.
The Chillicothe Police Department continues to monitor narcotics-related activity in the area as part of its ongoing efforts to combat drug use and trafficking.
