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N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Two officials with Wells County addressed the public and media on Wednesday, May 31st about the current investigation into Former Wells County Sheriff Johnny Zip Lawson.

Wells County States Attorney Kathleen Murray opened up the press conference informing everyone that the BCI had swore out a complaint against Lawson on May 26th.

Murray reports that a warrant for Lawson’s arrest had been issued by Judge Daniel Narum, which officials were unable to deliver to Lawson.

Lawson was later located and arrested in Bismarck. Charges currently pending against Lawson include felony counts of conspiracy to deliver methamphetamine and bribery. misdemeanor counts of providing false information to a law enforcement officer, neglect of duty by a public official, and ingesting meth.

Lawson was appointed January 14th, 2014 and was re-elected in 2016. Murray reports that they are currently looking to appoint a sheriff to fill the position.

Murray couldn’t comment on if there were going to be more charges against Lawson, but stated that there might be charges for some co-conspirators in the case.

Lawson’s attorney, Peter Welte, said, “His client is looking forward to the truth of this matter coming out in the courtroom.”

Interim Sheriff and Wells County Commissioner Randi Suckut says at this moment, there are three positions open within the Sheriff’s Department.

 When asked if there were cases still open within the county, Murray reported that there was. But, there had been enough outside help to address those cases.

When asked if there was mandatory drug testing required for someone applying for a Wells County Position, Suckut replied that there was not.

Suckut says that there is not set time to fill the position, but says he would like to fill the position as soon as possible.

Listen to the full press conference below:

Photos and audio taken by Greg Grenz.