Warrant Investigation Results In Drug, Other Arrests On Mt. Zion Road

One Individual Allegedly Able To Easily Remove Home Incarceration Ankle Monitor 

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
Three local men have been arrested on various drug, warrant, and escape charges after an investigation for warrant service by the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. 

According to a press release from the Edmonson County Sheriff, deputies arrived at the 2100 block of Mt. Zion Road in Brownsville on Sunday, February 9th around 8pm with information that a wanted fugitive was there. Deputies reported they saw drug paraphernalia in plain sight in a vehicle belonging to Steve Alford (58) of Brownsville. According to the press release, a search of the vehicle produced assorted drug paraphernalia commonly used for smoking methamphetamine, along with suspected methamphetamine residue. Alford was charged and arrested on scene for Possession of Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, 1st Offense (methamphetamine) and Drug Paraphernalia—Buy/Possess; he was lodged in Hart County Jail.

Barton Austin Houchin (31) of Brownsville, was then recognized by deputies at the front door of the residence, who was wanted on numerous outstanding warrants, according to the Sheriff's Office. Houchin was detained by deputies and drug paraphernalia was allegedly found on Houchin. Deputies reported that a search of the house produced a bag of suspected marijuana and additional drug paraphernalia. In addition to being served four outstanding warrants, Houchin was also charged with Possession of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia—Buy/Possess; he was lodged in Hart County Jail.

Steve Alford (58) of Brownsville

Barton Austin Houchin (31) of Brownsville

Barton Ashley Houchin (58), Brownsville.

The Sheriff's Office also reported that a home incarceration ankle monitor was seen laying in plain view on a nightstand. Barton Austin Houchin allegedly told deputies it was his, but deputies confirmed through KY Probation and Parole that it actually belonged to his father, Barton Ashley Houchin (58) of the same residence, who was gone. Barton Ashley Houchin was located the next day and it was confirmed that Houchin could easily remove the device from his ankle. Barton Ashley Houchin was arrested and charged with Escape 2nd Degree (Identify Facility); he was lodged in Hart County Jail.