Mayor touts ‘better, safer’ Bloomington after drug arrest roundup targets city park

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — Bloomington Mayor Kerry Thomson touted a “better, safer Bloomington” after a police operation cracked down on alleged drug dealing in Seminary Park.

On Thursday, Bloomington police officers descended upon Seminary Park after repeated reports of individuals using and selling drugs in the public space. Eight people were rounded up and arrested during the operation with the Bloomington Police Department promising more arrests to come.

“Detectives will continue their investigation into those selling and using dangerous drugs in the vicinity of City parks and more arrests are likely in the near future,” the police department said in a statement.

Both Thomson and the police department alluded to the open selling and use of drugs in Seminary Park. For the last several weeks, police investigators have reportedly focused on rooting out those responsible for both drug use and drug sales in the park.

“As Mayor, ensuring our community’s safety and well-being is my top priority,” Thomson said. “That means taking action when we are aware of behavior that endangers the public and puts those experiencing substance use disorder at further risk.”

Thomson stressed that the use of police to combat drug use was only “one piece of the solution.”

“That is why we are intent on supporting prevention, treatment and recovery to address the root causes of these complex issues,” Thomson said.

The mayor went on to say that she will focus on treating the city’s most vulnerable with “dignity and respect” while also not shying away from using the police force to ensure “a better, safer Bloomington.”

Five people arrested during the roundup are being held on preliminary felony charges of dealing a controlled substance.

• Joshua Stump, 40, faces multiple counts of dealing meth along with possession charges.
• Daniel Floyd, 46, faces one count of dealing meth.
• Jason Johnson, 55, faces multiple counts of dealing cocaine or a narcotic drug along with possession charges.
• William Potter, 51, faces one count of dealing along with possession charges.
• Anthony Sykes, 40, faces one count of dealing a controlled substance along with possession charges.

At this time, no official charges have been filed. Final charging decisions will be made by the Monroe County Prosecutor’s Office.