By Joe Bachman

A 24-year-old man has been charged with possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell after police found the substance in his possession after a K-9 search.

Joshua Lake, of Stratford, is charged with possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

According to police reports, on May 4, an officer was assisting in a drug investigation on the corner of S. Peach Ave. and E. 4th St. in Marshfield. The officer observed a few men sitting in a truck paying close attention to the officer, and then later noticeably evading the officer by walking away from the truck.

Police approached the group and after some conversation, officers were concerned that the individuals were involved in illegal activity. A K-9 was brought out to do a perimeter search of the truck, and positively indicated the presence of controlled substances inside the vehicle.

Officers searched the truck and found a large container marked “Poppycock Caramel Corn”. The container had a false bottom, which contained a  black digital scale and two clear plastic baggies. In some of the baggies, there was a white, crystalline substance believed to be methamphetamine.

Police spoke and identified Joshua Lake, who admitted that everything in the truck belonged to him. Tests would later confirm the total weight of methamphetamine to be 2.6 grams.

If convicted, Lake faces up to 12 years imprisonment and up to $25,000 in fines. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 19.