Narcotics Charges, Endangering Children, Multiple Arrests Made, PROVIDENCE, February 10, 2025 - On February 5, 2025, a routine traffic stop conducted by the Night Shift Patrol led to a significant narcotics investigation. The stop occurred on Mill Gate Road when officers initiated a stop on a passenger vehicle for a traffic violation.
The vehicle, occupied by Justin Martin (driver – 36 of Cleveland) and Holli Pederson (passenger – 27 of Livingston), was searched after officers detected the odor of burnt marijuana emanating from the vehicle. During the search, deputies discovered that Martin was in possession of 11 grams of methamphetamine, while Pederson was found in possession of methamphetamine. Both individuals were also found to be in possession of marijuana.
In the early morning hours of February 6th, the Narcotics Division, with the assistance of the Patrol Division and State Troopers, executed the search warrant at the residence. During the search, officers uncovered a large quantity of methamphetamine, items typically used to package and weigh narcotics for distribution, and additional cocaine.
Kenneth Ray Lockhart Jr. was arrested and charged with: Manufacture/Delivery of a Controlled Substance (methamphetamine), Posession of a Controlled Substance (cocaine)
While conducting the search, law enforcement encountered Calvin Sweeten (39 of Livingston) and Jeanie Cain (33 of Livingston), leaving the residence. Upon further investigation, Sweeten was found to be in possession of methamphetamine (4G-200G), and Cain had less than 1 gram of methamphetamine. Both individuals were also found to have left three juvenile children unattended at their own residence. When Detectives and Deputies arrived at the residence to check the welfare of the juveniles, they found all three juveniles asleep on a mattress on the floor. The residence was being powered by a long extension cord, ran from the neighboring house where the search warrant had taken place, which had a space heater plugged in and running.
In addition to their narcotics charges, Sweeten and Cain were each charged with three counts of Abandoning/Endangering a Child. Child Protective Services was notified, and the three juveniles were placed into their custody.
Lou Ann Hudson is expected to be arrested following the issuance of warrants for her involvement in the incident.
This case highlights the critical role of proactive patrols in addressing public safety concerns. The actions of the Night shift patrol not only led to the removal of dangerous narcotics from our community, but also prevented further harm to vulnerable children. The Polk County Sheriff's Office remains committed to protecting our citizens through diligent, community-focused patrols and investigations.
Kenneth Ray Lockhart, Jr., 63, of Livingston
Justin Martin, 36, of Cleveland
Holli Pederson, 27, of Livingston
Calvin Sweeten, 39, of Livingston
Jeanie Cain, 33, of Livingston
Lou Ann Hudson, 63, of Livingston
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