By Tim Arnett
WABASH,Indiana – We have an UPDATE on the pair found unresponsive in a vehicle on the corner of Columbus and Vernon Streets Friday night at approximately 10:30. The driver, Jon J. Haupert, 28, Lagro, is facing additional charges, including operating a vehicle after his driving privileges are forfeited for life, possession of a synthetic drug or a synthetic look-a-like substance, operating while intoxicated and unlawful possession of a syringe. The passenger, Brandy J. Swafford, 27, Wabash, is currently facing a possession of a syringe charge.
Jon J. Haupert
According to Wabash Police Officer Phil Mickelson’s affidavit of probable cause, Haupert was observed at the intersection passed out behind the wheel with his head completely back against the head rest. Police records indicate that the officer noticed Haupert sweating profusely and that Swafford was also passed out in the passenger seat. Officer Mickelson knocked on the door without any response. Both the driver and passenger were snoring loudly and struggling to breathe, Mickelson’s affidavit states. Another affidavit of probable cause written by Officer Aaron Snover states that he saw Haupert and Swafford “greyish blue in the face, snoring” with both having a “sweaty look.”
Mickelson’s affidavit continues that he shook Haupert awake for a few seconds before he passed out again. He and a paramedic both noticed two syringes by the cup holder on the center console of the vehicle. During a pat down, Mickelson alleges that he discovered spice in one of Haupert’s pockets. The driver allegedly admitted that both had used drugs in the vehicle sometime before the incident at 10:30 pm.
Haupert apparently added that Swafford had shot up in the vehicle, despite the fact that she was already “messed up” when he picked her up around 9 pm that evening. Haupert stated that he does not use heroin but, according to police, the medical staff at Parkview Wabash Hospital discovered a tightened hair tie around Haupert’s forearm. Police believe the hair tie has an obvious connection to drug use.
Brandy Swafford
A separate affidavit by Officer Mickelson states that Swafford was treated for an overdose at Parkview Wabash Hospital. A zip-lock bag with a white residue of some substance was allegedly found in Swafford’s pocket. According to the affidavit, Swafford admitted after her Miranda rights were administered that she had used heroin that night. Police records say that photos of needle marks were taken and will be added to the case file.
A witness on the scene told MiBash News that the Swafford had to be revived by the paramedics and that he overheard authorities say that she was nearly dead. He added that paramedics tried everything to revive Swafford, even yelling “wake up!” numerous times.