A Melbourne man who was out of jail on bond from recent felony drug charges and other charges was arrested again January 11 on drug charges. Ricky S. Dowdle, age 58 was stopped when Sgt. Acy Beebe recognized him and knew he had a suspended license. Dispatch confirmed that Dowdle’s license was suspended for driving while intoxicated-drugs. Dowdle denied that he knew his license was suspended. When asked if he had any illegal substance in his vehicle or on his person, he stated that he did not. During an officer safety pat down, Sgt. Beebe felt what appeared to be a leafy type substance in his left front pocket. When asked what was in his pocket, Dowdle stated that it was rolled up money. When removed from his pocket, it was determined to be a green leafy substance in a plastic baggie. Dowdle admitted that the substance was marijuana.  Sgt. Beebe’s k-9 partner, Hugo, alerted to the driver’s side door of Dowdle’s vehicle, but a search of the vehicle did not produce additional illegal drugs.  Sheriff Tate Lawrence said that Dowdle was charged with driving on a suspended license and possession of a controlled substance. Dowdle’s previous bond was revoked and he remains in the Izard County Detention Facility, where Dowdle tested positive for marijuana and methamphetamine, awaiting an appearance in Izard County Circuit Court.

News Release, For Immediate Release, January 13, 2014, POC: Sheriff Tate Lawrence, 870 368 4203

Note: Picture of Dowdle provided