John Richards, 55, arrested on various charges

Sedona AZ (September 22, 2015) – On September 14, 2015, Partner Against Narcotics Trafficking (PANT) detectives arrived at a home in the 6000 block of Wagon Wheel Drive, in the Groom Greek area of Prescott, Arizona, to investigate reports of a runaway juvenile selling drugs. The detectives quickly located the teen female runaway who explained she had permission by the homeowner, John Richards, 55, to stay at the home. She also reported that Richards provided and smoked meth with her on at least one occasion. During the investigation, detectives located another teenage female runaway who refused to speak with them.

Richards admitted both females had been staying at his home for several days and denied knowing they were reported runaways. He also made no attempt to contact their parents while there. During a consent search of a van driven by Richards a “bindle” of meth was found. A further search of the garage where the runaways were staying revealed additional meth and associated paraphernalia.

Richards also had an outstanding warrant issued by the Prescott Justice Court.

Richards was booked at the Camp Verde Detention Center on charges including Possession of a Dangerous Drug, Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor x2, Employing a Minor to violate Drug Law, and Sell/Offer Minor Drugs. He remains in custody on a $10,000 bond.

The runaways, both from Prescott, were released to the custody of the Prescott Juvenile Detention Center.

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