A Vernal man calls police for help because he saw someone in his bathroom who wasn't breathing
- Travis Uresk
- Jul 5
- 2 min read
by Travis Uresk
7-5-25
| Vernal, Ut. | July 5th, 2025 |
Deputy Russell was dispatched to a residence on South Vernal Ave. on a report of suspicious activity.
The caller, 65-year-old Wesley Dean Hardinger, stated that he could see someone in his bathroom who was not breathing. He then said he was the only one home and could see their shadow.
When police arrived on scene, Wesley was sitting on the couch near the front door. Deputy Russell searched the residence, and there wasn't anyone else inside.
After confirming that the residence was only occupied by Wesley, the officers informed him that he had active warrants and would be going to jail.
Wesley began to complain that he was in pain, and an ambulance was called to assess him.
While waiting for the ambulance to arrive, the deputies helped Wesley to his feet so that he could put on his shoes. When doing so, a black bag was observed on the couch directly to Wesley's left, which was then moved to a nearby table.
Sgt. Watkins saw a syringe and a plastic container containing a white crystal substance that had been moved from the bag.
Based on Wesley's hallucinations and lethargic behavior, the syringe and the crystalline substance inside the plastic container he was on methamphetamine.
A further search of the black bag resulted in a small blue plastic container containing drug paraphernalia, most commonly known as scrapes, an additional unused syringe, several loose prescription pills that were identified as Tramadol Hydrochloride (a schedule IV controlled substance), and Eliquis.
Also located was a green and yellow pipe containing burnt marijuana and a cell phone.
After Wesley was cleared at the hospital, he was transported to jail and booked on three active warrants.
A criminal history check found that Wesley has two prior marijuana possession convictions, and three prior convictions for possession of a controlled substance in the last seven years.
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