A routine traffic stop for speeding early Thursday morning resulted in the arrest of a Rochester man on drug-related charges, according to the Marshall County Sheriff's Department.
On March 12, 2026, at approximately 5:49 a.m., Marshall County Deputy Matt Geiger initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle traveling on US 31 near the intersection of Lincoln Highway. The driver of the vehicle was identified as 24-year-old Avery Gates of Rochester.
During the course of the traffic stop investigation, authorities discovered that Gates was in possession of marijuana (THC) as well as drug paraphernalia.
Gates was taken into custody at the scene and transported to the Marshall County Jail. He was officially booked on criminal charges for possession of marijuana and possession of paraphernalia.
According to the sheriff's department, Gates was issued a future court date and his cash bond was set at $255.00.

Readers are reminded that all criminal defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Vincennes man arrested in connection with fatal fire
Red Hill Unit #10 adopts fiscal year budget;sets high school graduation
Lawrenceville to seek state sidewalk improvement grant
Early voting for November election underway in Illinois
Postal Service recommends 2026 holiday mailing and shipping dates
Lawrence County high schools recognized for student financial aid services
Mock emergency drill planned in Lawrence County
Unit #20 fiscally sound after passage of 2026-27 budget
Illinois to close eight state visitor information centers
Niemerg issues statement on no cash bail anniversary
Lawrence County drivers reminded of Child Passenger Safety Week
Fire injures one person in Vincennes
Farm harvest safety reminders for drivers
Southwestern Indiana fugitive arrested in Illinois after multi-county chase
Governor Braun proclaims Indiana Rail Safety Week September 21-27
Lawrence County (ILL.) man charged with child sex crime
