HERRIN – A man was recently cited for having meth and other drug paraphernalia and for putting the lives of three children in danger after Williamson County Sheriff’s deputies saw a vehicle commit multiple traffic violations while traveling north on Illinois 148 in Herrin.

According to the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, just before 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 20, deputies pulled over Kortrell D. Johnson Jr.

While speaking with Johnson, deputies noticed the strong odor of cannabis coming from his vehicle which was occupied by three children ages 2, 3, and a 13-day-old infant.

A probable cause search of the vehicle located a white crystal like substance that field tested positive for methamphetamine, a black bag containing five Alprazolam pills –  a Schedule 4 controlled substance, two hypodermic syringes that field tested positive for methamphetamine which were wrapped in a diaper next to one of the juveniles, and 15 unsealed bags labeled “premium cannabis” located on the rear floorboard.

Johnson was cited for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Endangering the Life or Health of a Child, Improper Lane Usage, and Improper Turn Signal. He was taken to the Williamson County Jail.

A report was completed with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services and the juveniles and their belongings were transported to their mother.