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

Franklin Co. Residents Encouraged to Report Flooding Damage

Contact Indiana 211 to report flooding damage from March 5.

Lawrenceburg High School Announces New Tradition for Graduates

Senior banners are available for purchase.

New Indiana Law: Penny-rounding for Retailers

Rounding is for cash transactions only after the federal phaseout of the penny.

Switz. Co's. Redwine Commits to Indiana Tech

Redwine placed 4th at the Wrestling State Finals this year.

Enrollments, Classifications Announced for 2026-27, 2027-28

The classifications will be used for state tournaments the next two school years.

On Air

Rick Bernius playing
Steve Wariner - Kansas City Lights

Jon Pardi Your Heart or Mine 17:13
Chris Young Getting You Home 17:07
Brett Eldredge Raymond 17:04
Fox News Fox News National Newscast 17:00