SEDGWICK COUNTY — A report of a suspicious vehicle led to the arrest of two people in Bentley earlier this month, according to the Bentley Police Department.
Deputy Chief Scott Harris responded to a call around 9:30 p.m. on Nov. 11 after residents reported a suspicious character driving through the neighborhood near Devonshire and Midland. Mt. Hope Officer Brandon Endicott also assisted with checking the area.
Officers located the vehicle parked partially on public right of way and private property at 150 S. Dacey. The car displayed an expired Oklahoma registration and was occupied by a single woman. Officers observed burglary tools inside and learned from a citizen that a male passenger had left the vehicle and was seen walking south on Phelps.
Chief Bryan and Police Service Dog Edy arrived to search the vehicle. A free air sniff resulted in a positive alert, and a subsequent search led to the discovery of suspected methamphetamine, marijuana and multiple items of drug paraphernalia.
While responding to assist, Colwich Officer Tyson Ridenour was advised of a man walking in the roadway near K-96 and 151st Street West. He stopped the man, determined he was the second occupant of the vehicle and placed him under arrest on two outstanding warrants.
Police identified the woman as Susan Lepich, 39. She was was arrested on requested charges of possession of controlled substances, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, no proof of insurance and operating without valid registration. Investigators noted she has previous drug-related convictions, including a 2020 conviction in Colorado Springs for dangerous drugs and criminal trespass, and a September arrest in Greensburg for possession of methamphetamine. Her initial appearance is scheduled for December in Kiowa County District Court. She was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on a 3,250 dollar bond.
The male suspect, identified as Chad E. Hendershot, 43, of Wichita, was transported and booked on two warrants issued through the Wichita Police Department.