Welcome to Arrest Stories. A forty-six-year-old Ohio man was arrested after accidentally sending methamphetamine through a bank's drive-thru pneumatic tube system during what was otherwise a routine banking transaction. Here's what may have happened.
On December third, deputies were called to a bank in Woodsfield, Ohio, located one hundred twenty miles due east of Columbus. A bank employee had discovered an unusual item that accompanied a customer transaction sent through one of the bank's air tube systems.
The employee found a baggie containing a crystal-like substance that appeared suspicious. Deputies recovered the baggie and determined the substance was consistent with methamphetamine. Subsequent testing confirmed the substance was indeed methamphetamine.
The investigation revealed that Jason G. Smith had unknowingly sent the drug-filled baggie through the drive-thru tube system while completing his banking business. Smith had inadvertently included the package with his transaction materials.
Ohio Department of Natural Resources officers located Smith in Wayne Township following the discovery at the bank. During the arrest process, law enforcement utilized K-nine Max to conduct a search of Smith's truck. The police dog assisted in recovering additional suspected drugs and drug-related items from the vehicle.
Smith was transported to the Monroe County Jail following his arrest on December third.
The Monroe County Sheriff's Office addressed the unusual incident with a statement emphasizing drug surrender options. Officials stated, "Illegal drugs don't belong in bank drive-thrus but they can be turned in at the Sheriff's Office. No charges, no handcuffs, just help. We'd much rather safely take them off the street than see another unexpected deposit."
The case highlights an uncommon method of drug discovery, as the pneumatic tube systems at bank drive-thrus are typically used only for legitimate banking documents and materials.
All suspects presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Do not take this report as factual, always verify facts. Thanks for watching Arrest Stories.