LONDON, KY - Laurel County Sheriff John Root is reporting that: Laurel Sheriff's Deputy Bobby Roberts arrested two individuals south of London on Friday night July 26, 2024 at approximately 9:03 PM.
The arrests occurred off old U.S. 25 approximately 3 miles South of London while Deputy Roberts was attempting to locate a suspicious person on a complaint he was dispatched to by London – Laurel County 911 Communication Ctr..
Upon arrival in the vicinity of the complaint Deputy Roberts located a male subject stumbling down the roadway that hopped into a passing car. A traffic stop was conducted and the individual that had been observed getting into the car was found in possession of suspected heroin, and pills. In addition this individual was determined to be under the influence. It was also learned that this subject, who was identified as Brandon Smith age 24 of Douglas Blvd., Corbin, KY was wanted on an outstanding warrant.
An investigation was conducted on the driver of the vehicle, a Cadillac CTS. He was identified as Nicholas Mandel age 44 of Judge St., Barbourville, KY and was also determined to be under the influence. Both subjects were placed under arrest.
Brandon Smith was charged with:
- Public intoxication – controlled substances
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Prescription controlled substances not in proper container – second offense
- Possession of a controlled substance – first-degree – first offense – heroin
- Tampering with physical evidence (He had allegedly attempted to hide heroin in the vehicle)
In addition, this subject was charged on a Knox County bench warrant of arrest charging failure to appear in court.
Nicholas Mandel was charged with:
- Operating a motor vehicle under the influence – first offense
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
These two individuals were lodged in the Laurel County Correctional Center.
Photos of accused attached are courtesy of Laurel County Correctional Center.
