Overdose Victim, Pill Supplier Arrested Near Park

Lawrenceburg Police say the drug deal occurred near Arch Street Park.

(Lawrenceburg, Ind.) - A drug overdose resulted in the victim and her neighbor being charged and arrested.

First responders found 23-year-old Melanie Rutledge overdosed at an apartment on East High Street in downtown Lawrenceburg on March 22. She was still conscious and breathing when Lawrenceburg Police officers arrived, according to a court affidavit.

Rutledge told police and EMTs she had been given Suboxone by her neighbor, Christopher Huntington. Rutledge also said she had taken Xanax and Gabapentin, drank alcohol and smoked marijuana.

Police interviewed Huntington, who allegedly told them he obtained the Suboxone illegally and traded pills with Rutledge.

Huntington, 32, is charged with Dealing in a Controlled Substance (level 6 felony) and Possession of a Legend Drug (level 6 felony).

Rutledge, 25, faces charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance (class A misdemeanor) and Sale of a Legend Drug (level 6 felony)

Police noted in the affidavit that the charges could be elevated because of the apartment’s proximity to Arch Street Park.

More from Local News


Events

Ivy Tech Lawrenceburg, Batesville Contributes $42.2 Million to Region

New report shows the immense impact of the college’s students, alumni and operations.

South Ripley to Celebrate Ribbon Cutting, Dedication at Newly Renovated Forest G. Waters Field

The renovation project was made possible through the generous support of numerous partners and sponsors.

Local Sports Report - April 6, 2026

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

Local Sports Report - April 2-4, 2026

Plenty of scores and stats from Easter Weekend.

Local Sports Report - April 1, 2026

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

On Air

Rick Bernius playing
Johnny Lee - Lookin' For Love

Elle King and Dierks Bentley Worth a Shot 16:09
Pam Tillis Maybe It Was Memphis 16:05
High Valley Make You Mine 16:02
Fox News Fox News National Newscast 16:01