On Feb. 1, deputies with the Harlan County Sheriff’s Office were on patrol in an area where numerous drug complaints have been received. While in the area, deputies came in contact with Melinda Starrett.

Through further investigation, it was discovered that Starrett was in possession of eight plastic bags containing suspected methamphetamine, digital scales and a syringe.

Starrett, 28, was arrested and charged with first-degree trafficking in controlled substance (greater than 2 grams of Methamphetamine), possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting arrest and third-degree criminal trespassing.

She was lodged in the Harlan County Detention Center with bond set at $5,000 cash.

In other police news, deputies were on patrol in the Loyall area Sunday and conducted a traffic stop in an area where numerous drug complaints were also received.

Through further investigation, it was discovered that a passenger in a vehicle had an active Harlan County District Court Bench Warrant. A pipe containing methamphetamine and illegal prescription medications were also located.

Michelle Harp, 37, of Loyall, was arrested and charged with first-degree possession of controlled substance (methamphetamine),illegal possession of legend drug, possession of drug paraphernalia and prescription controlled substance not in a proper container.

She was lodged in the Harlan County Detention Center with bond set at $2,000 cash.

Cases remain under investigation by the Harlan County Sheriff’s Office.

Additional investigations are ongoing and additional arrests are pending.

In other police activity, the following were lodged in the Harlan County Detention Center:

• Benjamin Bowman, 38, of Loyall, first-degree trafficking a controlled substance (methamphetamine) and tampering with physical evidence, drug paraphernalia, rear license not illuminated, license required; to be carried on person, failure to produce insurance card and license to be in possession;

• Jason Sullivan, 34, of Harlan, giving officer false identifying information, first-degree fleeing or evading police (on foot), first-degree wanton endangerment-police officer, license to be in possession, no operators-moped license, failure to produce insurance card, failure of owner to maintain required insurance/security, no registration receipt, third-degree criminal mischief, resisting arrest, menacing and failure to wear seat belts.