ASHLAND, Ala – An investigation into suspicious activity at an Ashland motel prompted authorities to believe explosives might be present at the site. No explosives were found, but a local man was arrested on multiple charges.
Joseph Blancher was arrested at the Country Inn Motel after deputies with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office discovered materials they initially believed could be explosive devices. As a precaution, the motel was evacuated, and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Bomb Squad was called to investigate.
Following a thorough investigation, bomb squad personnel determined the materials posed no threat to the public. However, investigators discovered illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia, a functioning still, and untaxed alcohol at the scene.
Blancher was charged in connection with those findings.
The Ashland Police Department and the Lineville Police Department assisted with the investigation.
