Russel Butler Johnny Austin
Three Hopkinsville residents were arrested on drug, gun and shoplifting charges Sunday afternoon.
The alleged shoplifting incidents happened at Walmart and other businesses, according to arrest citations, which say 66-year old Russel Butler of Hopkinsville drove 48-year old Johnny Austin and 32-year old Sunshine Austin to those locations.
Hopkinsville Police made contact with the suspects on Linwood Drive.
There was a rifle loaded with restricted ammunition in the van and a loaded shotgun. A computer check showed Butler and Johnny Austin are convicted felons.
Marijuana was allegedly found on Johnny Austin’s person and a prescription pill and baggies were located under his seat. Police say Sunshine Austin had a syringe loaded with narcotics in her clothes and that meth and heroin were found in her purse. A search at the jail allegedly revealed a baggie and pill in her body.
All three suspects were charged with theft by unlawful taking and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Butler and Johnny Austin were additionally charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and using restricted ammunition during commission of a felony.
Johnny and Sunshine Austin were charged with possession of a controlled substance and tampering with evidence and Sunshine Austin was charged with promoting contraband and possession of synthetic drugs.
Sunshine Austin