2 days ago
Man pleads guilty after 2024 traffic stop turned up drugs, stolen gun
HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT) – A Louisville man will spend time in prison following an agreement to plead guilty in relation to a traffic stop in 2024 that turned up drugs and a stolen gun.
According to the Spencer County Prosecutor's Office, 38-year-old John Mooney plead guilty to Possession of Meth and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon among other charges.
As previously reported, in early February 2024, Indiana State Police Troopers running stationary traffic on I-64 saw a black Honda Civic going in excess of 120 MPH. Mooney was the one discovered to be driving.
Officials state upon catching up to the vehicle at the Nancy Hanks Rest Area, an investigation uncovered several items of contraband in the vehicle. Troopers discovered a stolen 9mm pistol and 623 grams of meth in a trash receptable of the woman's bathroom during a search of the rest area.
The passenger was identified as 24-year-old Rita Delong of Louisville. Officials say she admitted to placing the stolen firearm and meth in the bathroom shortly before Troopers caught up.
Mooney reportedly denied having knowledge or involvement in the items, but analysis later revealed Mooney's DNA was on numerous components of the firearm.
Officials state under the plea agreement, Mooney agreed to be sentenced to 12 years with six being executed at the Indiana Department of Correction while the other six would be executed by continuing supervision.
Delong had previously plead guilty in June 2024 to Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine and Theft of a Firearm. She was sentenced to 17 1/2 years with four being executed at the IDOC, six tears on Community Corrections Work Release and 7 1/2 years of continuing supervision.
Mooney's sentencing is slated for July 17.
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