On Sunday, March 31, shortly after 8 p.m., Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a traffic stop for a motor vehicle infraction between Great Bend and Hoisington. Deputies suspected possible drug violations and were conducting a drug investigation when the passenger in the vehicle identified as Frederick Koepke, age 59 of Great Bend, became combative and uncooperative.
With the aid of a taser, Koepke was arrested. Sheriff’s office K9 Menta arrived at the scene and indicated the presence of controlled substances. Methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were located inside the vehicle. The driver, identified as Jessica Martin, age 49 also of Great Bend, was placed under arrest for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. Both were transported the Barton County Jail.
Koepke was booked on requested charges of interference with law enforcement officer and has since posted a $2,500 bond. It was found the driver, Martin, had two outstanding warrants for failing to appear and probation violations. Martin was booked on two warrants which have a bond of $10,000 each as well as the drug possession charges which also have a bond of $10,000.