Richland Center Police Chief John Annear and Richland County Sheriff Jim Bindl report that charges have been filed by the Richland County District Attorney’s Office on three subjects stemming from multiple investigations conducted by the Richland-Iowa-Grant Drug Task Force.
William S. Johnson, 25, of Richland Center was charged with one count of Delivery of a schedule I drug, a class E felony.
Austin J. Von Behren, 22, of Hillpoint was charged with one count of Manufacture/Deliver Non-Narcotics, a class H felony, as well as four counts of misdemeanor Bail Jumping.
Derek M. Pederson, 27, of Boscobel was charged with two counts of Falsely Presenting a Non-Controlled (as a controlled substance), a class I felony.
Chief Annear noted that prescription pill diversion, which is the use of prescription drugs for recreational purposes, continues to be a priority of the Richland-Iowa-Grant Drug Task Force, due to the inherent dangers associated with it. Sheriff Bindl added that, not only are prescription medications dangerous when not used/dispensed properly, those involved with the illegal distribution are often engaged in other criminal activity.
Chief Annear and Sheriff Bindl would like to remind citizens to report any suspicious activity by immediately notifying law enforcement. Callers that wish to remain anonymous can call Richland Area Crime Stoppers at 647-2583 and may be eligible for a cash reward.
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