South Bend man arrested on drug and driving charges following early morning traffic stop on Michigan Road

A South Bend man was arrested in the early morning hours of Tuesday, June 30th, after a Marshall County Sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop that revealed the driver had never been licensed, had a suspended driving status, and had a legend drug.

Deputy Wozniak initiated a traffic stop on a gold 1999 Chevrolet passenger car on Michigan Road near 6C Road at approximately 12:46 a.m. During the investigation, the driver was identified as Brandon M. Simmons, 31, of South Bend. Deputies determined that Simmons had never received a driver's license and that his driving status was suspended with a prior conviction. He was also found to be in possession of a legend drug — a prescription medication that requires a doctor's order to obtain.

Simmons was transported to Plymouth Hospital for jail clearance before being taken to the Marshall County Jail. He was booked on charges of possession of a legend drug, driving while suspended with a prior, and operating a vehicle without ever receiving a driver's license. Bond was set at $1,500. Tim's Towing assisted at the scene.

Readers are reminded that charging information supported by an affidavit of probable cause is a mere allegation that a crime has been committed and that there is only probable cause to believe a crime has been committed. They are presumed innocent throughout the proceedings and are entitled to be represented by counsel and entitled to a trial by jury at which the State is obligated to provide proof beyond a reasonable doubt before a judgment of guilt may be made.