Search warrant leads to drug charge

VW independent/submitted information

A Van Wert man was charged with a drug-related misdemeanor following the execution of a search warrant at his residence on Monday.

James F. Partin, 41, of 10886 Lincoln Highway, Apt. 6, was charged with possession of drug abuse instruments, a misdemeanor of the second degree, as a result of the search.

Van Wert County Sheriff Thomas M. Riggenbach noted that members of the West Central Ohio Crime Task Force and Van Wert County sheriff’s deputies executed the warrant after reports of drug activity at Partin’s residence.

The search resulted in the finding of hypodermic needles, a small amount of a suspected prescription medication, various items of drug paraphernalia, money and a cell phone.

A young child was also found in the home, and Van Wert County Children’s Services was also called to the residence.

Partin was taken to the Van Wert County Correctional Facility, where he is being held until his arraignment in Van Wert Municipal Court.

Sheriff Riggenbach also said a nuisance abatement letter would be sent to the owner of the property in connection with the incident. Nuisance abatement letters make property owners aware of alleged illegal activity occurring on their property. Property can be seized by law enforcement if property owners knowingly permit illegal activity to continue on their property.

The sheriff also asks that anyone who has information on drug activity contact his office at 419.238.3866 or use his office’s website at www.vanwertcountysheriff.com and click on the “submit a crime tip” link. People can also provide information on other crimes by using the above options or calling Crime Stoppers at 419.238.STOP. Those calling or using the sheriff’s website can remain anonymous when making reports.

The West Central Ohio Crime Task Force is a multi-county organization comprised of officers from the Van Wert County, Allen County and Paulding County sheriff’s offices, Lima Police Department and several state and federal agencies.