Deputies in Monroe County are asking Bloomington-area residents to keep an eye out for 48-year-old Gregory James Rood Jr after a wanted notice went public on Wednesday. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office says Rood is facing felony drug counts and is accused of trafficking controlled substances to an inmate. Authorities are stressing that anyone who spots him should call law enforcement rather than try to confront him.
According to the Monroe County Sheriff's Office on Facebook, Rood is wanted on Level 5 felony charges for possession of methamphetamine and for trafficking with an inmate involving a controlled substance. The social media post includes a photo of Rood and notes he has three additional pending cases. Officials repeatedly emphasize that the accusations are still allegations at this stage.
How to submit tips
The sheriff’s office is steering anyone with information toward its official reporting channels, not social media comment threads. Tipsters can use the department’s app, visit the Submit a Tip page on the agency’s website, or call the non-emergency tip line at (812) 349-2815. The website notes that tips may be submitted anonymously and lists the department’s lobby address in Bloomington for in-person contact. If something appears to be unfolding in real time or threatening safety, authorities say to call 911.
What officials say about Rood's identity
The wanted poster pegs Rood at 48 years old, about 6 feet tall and 180 pounds, with blond hair and blue eyes, and includes a booking-style photograph. Deputies also state he has three additional pending cases, according to the wanted poster. The sheriff’s office is asking anyone who recognizes him to submit information through the app, the website, or the tip line rather than engaging on their own.
Legal context
Under Indiana law, a Level 5 felony carries a fixed prison term of one to six years, with an advisory sentence of three years and potential fines of up to $10,000, according to the Indiana Code (FindLaw). The trafficking-with-an-inmate offense is laid out in state statute and becomes a Level 5 felony when the item involved is a controlled substance; see IC 35-44.1-3-5 on Justia for the legal fine print.
Authorities reiterate that if you see Rood, do not approach him. For an immediate threat or active situation, call 911. For non-emergencies or tips on his possible whereabouts, contact the sheriff’s tip line at (812) 349-2815. More information and anonymous tip options can be found on the department's Submit a Tip page.
