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December 12, 2003

3 Purdue students arrested on drug-related charges

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Purdue University police today (Friday, 12/12) arrested three freshmen on drug-related charges.

Police were called to McCutcheon Hall, where the students live, at approximately 3 a.m. after someone reported smelling marijuana. After investigating the report, police arrested Brennan C. Bennett, 19, from Louisville; Justin W. Behnke, 18, from West Dundee, Ill.; and Mychael M. Thompson, 18, from Mishawaka, Ind.

Bennett was arrested on suspicion of maintaining a common nuisance, reckless possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of the controlled substance hydrocodone, all Class D felonies; and possession of less than 30 grams of marijuana, a Class A misdemeanor. Since Bennett's room is located within 1,000 feet of a public park, police will seek to have the controlled substance charge elevated to a Class C felony, said John K. Cox, Purdue police captain of special services. Bennett was taken to Tippecanoe County Jail and was being held on $5,000 bond.

Behnke and Thompson were arrested on suspicion of visiting a common nuisance, a Class B misdemeanor. They were being held in Tippecanoe County Jail in lieu of a $100 cash bond. Cox said the two may face additional charges.

A Class C felony is punishable by up to eight years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000, and a Class D felony is punishable by a sentence of up to three years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000. The maximum sentence for a Class A misdemeanor is one year and a fine of up to $5,000, while a Class B misdemeanor is punishable by a maximum sentence of six months and a fine of not more than $1,000.

Writer: Brian Zink, (765) 494-2080, bzink@purdue.edu

Source: John K. Cox, (765) 494-8221