First Jury Trial In Franklin Co. Since The Pandemic Started Ends With Felony Conviction

A Laurel man was found guilty of possession of methamphetamine.

Shutterstock photo.

(Brookville, Ind.) – The first jury trial conducted in Franklin County since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a guilty verdict.

Phillip Richardson, 61, of Laurel, was found guilty of Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 6 Felony) after a brief deliberation from jurors.

Richardson was arrested during a traffic stop on December 22, 2018, where he was found in possession of nearly half a gram of methamphetamine. An additional misdemeanor count of Illegal Possession of a Controlled Substance was dismissed because Richardson was able to provide evidence that he had a valid prescription at the time of the alleged offense.

As result of the felony conviction, Richardson is facing 6-30 months behind bars.

He will be sentenced on May 18.

According to Prosecuting Attorney Chris Huerkamp, Judge Clay Kellerman’s staff took numerous safety precautions to ensure that each prospective juror felt safe during the proceedings.

“Judge Kellerman and his staff addressed the issue from the outset, and at least from what I know, no prospective juror was uncomfortable with the setup,” said Huerkamp. “I think I can speak for all parties involved in this case—Attorneys, Judge, and Court Staff--in thanking the entire jury pool for their service and attention during the course of the proceedings.”

More from Local News

Events

2027 DCF Scholarship Applications Now Available for High School Seniors

Scholarships are available for students at five area high schools.

Garbage Truck Fire Reported at Milan High School

This is the second fire of this type within two months at the same location.

Dearborn County Convention, Visitor & Tourism Bureau Awards Local Tourism Grants

The grants support local projects designed to support tourism and enhance the visitor experience in Dearborn County.

High School Baseball Fields Light up Across Indiana to Honor Late Jennings Co. Coach

The show of support to the Sigler family and Jennings County community was strong on Thursday night.

Local Sports Report - September 17, 2026

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

Switz. Co. Kicker Nails Record Long Field Goal, Earns MIFC Weekly Honors

See other top performers in the MIFC for Week 4

On Air

Rick Bernius playing
Florida Georgia Line - Long Live

Mary Chapin Carpenter Passionate Kisses 15:02
Fox News Fox News National Newscast 15:01
Frankie Ballard Helluva Life 14:56
George Strait Check Yes or No 14:53