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

Randy Lutz Announces Candidacy for Dearborn Co. Council

The primary election is May 5, 2026.

AAA: Nearly 82 Million Travelers Expected Over Thanksgiving Holiday Period

Around 90 percent of those travelers will be motorists.

Deck the Parks: Holiday Light Displays to Shine at Five DNR Destinations

Versailles State Park is among the destinations hosting an event.

MSJ Trio Earn All-Conference Honors

The former East Central and Lawrenceburg stars had a terrific season.

Local Sports Report - November 20, 2025

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

On Air

Your Hometown Radio Station playing
Maddie & Tae - Shut Up & Fish

Alan Jackson Chattahoochee 3:30
Brett Young Like I Loved You 3:26
Carly Pearce Closer To You 3:23
Tracy Lawrence I See It Now 3:19