A Slidell man has found himself at the center of a narcotics investigation which has concluded with several charges against him. Kristopher Hardin, 48, was taken into custody after an investigation by the Parish's Narcotics Division pointed to his involvement in the illegal drug trade, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office reported.
The inquiry into Hardin's activities began when the narcotics detectives received a tip-off about his alleged drug dealings. Acting on gathered intelligence, the authorities were able to secure two warrants for Hardin's arrest citing distribution of methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance. Detectives executed a traffic stop near mile marker 2 of Interstate 59 South in Pearl River on Monday, September 16, where Hardin's vehicle was halted and he was arrested without further incident, according to the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office report.
The arrest led to the discovery and seizure of roughly 20 grams of methamphetamine in Hardin's possession. Additionally, searches at both the traffic stop scene and Hardin’s residence in the 200 block of Goldenwood Drive, Slidell resulted in the confiscation of Suboxone, Adderall, Gabapentin, firearms, and drug paraphernalia.
In a move to reassure the community and affirm the steadfastness of local law enforcement, Sheriff Randy Smith delivered a strong message. “If you think you are going to sell dangerous and illegal drugs in our parish and not be arrested, you are mistaken,” Sheriff Smith said. “Law Enforcement will not tolerate it and our residents will not tolerate it, and we continue to work together to identify those individuals who are selling drugs in our neighborhoods,” as reported by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office.
Following his arrest, Hardin faced several additional charges including possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of other controlled substances, unlawful possession of a firearm during drug activity, and traffic violations. Residents and the wider community with information on narcotic activities or any other crimes are encouraged to contact the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office via their website or the narcotics tip line.
