Traffic Stop Lands Woman in Jail On Drug Charge

Equipment violation led to discovery of drugs

January 28, 2023, Madison Police arrested Rhonda M. Barnes, 55, Madison, Indiana.  Barnes was arrested after a traffic stop for an equipment violation, by Patrol Officer Nchle Midgett.  

The subsequent investigation following the stop led to the discovery of narcotics.  Barnes was found to be in possession of a controlled substance (class A misdemeanor), marijuana (class B misdemeanor), and paraphanailia (class A misdemeanor).  

With the presence of a juvenile in the vehicle, an additional charge of neglect of a dependent (level 6 felony) was filed. 

Officer Midgett was assisted by Patrol Officer Kyle Lane.  Barnes has the presumption of innocence until otherwise proven guilty.