Local man faces drug trafficking charge

New Albany police have arrested a person they consider one of the area’s more prolific drug dealers and charged him with trafficking in methamphetamine.

Officers formally charged Jeremy Perkins, 41, this past Monday, although the offense occurred several weeks ago.

Narcotics investigator Kevin Johnson said officers were involved in unrelated surveillance at the Hallmarc Inn. “We happened up on him,” Johnson said, “and watched him do a deal or two.”

When Perkins left, the officers performed a traffic stop on the suspect and he gave consent to search the room.

Officers found 70 grams of methamphetamine there. Having more than 30 grams brings the more serious trafficking charge as opposed to sale or possession.

His bond was set at $50,000.

Johnson said more charges are pending because Perkins also had 70 grams of methamphetamine in his possession when he was stopped. He had a handgun as well, which means another charge because he is a convicted felon.