CPD arrests Serious Violent Felon

COLUMBUS, Ind. - A man is in custody on multiple felony charges following a traffic stop earlier this week. On May 6 at 1:51 p.m., the Columbus Police Department (CPD) pulled over a vehicle for speeding near 1st St and Lafayette Ave.

During the traffic stop, CPD K9 Oden alerted, indicating drugs were inside the car. A search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered almost six ounces of methamphetamine, a syringe, and a handgun. Officers seized other suspected drugs, but they are being sent to the lab for further testing.

The driver, Rick Hibbs, 27 of Evansville, was arrested and preliminarily charged with:

• Dealing meth (level 2 felony)

• Possession of meth (level 3 felony)

• Possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon (level 4 felony)

• Possession of a syringe (level 6 felony)

Public records indicate Hibbs has a previous conviction for dealing meth and escape. He remains in the Bartholomew County Jail.