CLAYPOOL — A man faces multiple charges after allegedly stealing a firearm after an alleged argument.

Jesse Hurst Messer, 53, 7528 West Seward Drive, Claypool, faces charges of possession of a narcotic drug, a level 5 felony; possession of methamphetamine; two counts of theft, a level 6 felony; and possession of paraphernalia, a class C misdemeanor.

On Feb. 26, an Indiana State Police officer began investigating a report of a stolen firearm. Upon arrival, the victim claimed the firearm was stolen by Messer after an argument, said the affidavit of probable cause.

The victim claimed Messer was staying at the victim’s residence. The two started an argument after the victim allegedly found out that Messer was using drugs and attempted to kick him out. The victim allowed Messer to live in his Chevrolet TrailBlazer, said the affidavit.

Also on Feb. 26, the victim returned from work and found Messer had returned to find Messer in the basement. A physical fight broke out between the two. According to the affidavit, at some point, Messer took the victim’s firearm. He left the residence on foot.

Police found Messer in a silver Dodge Durango at a public access site on Beaver Dam Lake. Messer consented to a vehicle search, according to the affidavit. He acknowledged the situation regarding the allegedly stolen firearm. He agreed to return the firearm to the victim.

Police took the firearm from Messer.

Police searched the vehicle. They found a lightbulb and a plastic tube that allegedly contained residue from methamphetamine. A backpack that contained an open package of fentanyl was found as well, said the affidavit.

The victim allowed police to search his garage where Messer previously stayed. Police allegedly found a white Dodge Ram that was discovered to be stolen from Perry County, Kentucky. The victim said Messer drove the vehicle when he first arrived at the residence.

The vehicle belonged to AAA Mine Service, Messer’s previous employer, said the affidavit.

On Feb. 26, Messer was booked in the Kosciusko County Jail. He was later released on his own recognizance.