LIHUE >> A pilot who flies Kauai County’s helicopter for rescue and training missions has been indicted on drug charges. 

A grand jury on Thursday indicted Kurt Patrick Ventura, a pilot who works for the company that is contracted by the county to fly and maintain its helicopter. The indictment alleges promoting a harmful drug, use of drug paraphernalia, possession of an anabolic steroid and other charges.

The Garden Island (http://bit.ly/H30bDR ) reports he was arrested on March 12 and posted bail.

A county spokeswoman says a warrant has been issued for his arrest after the indictment was returned. 

Ventura could not immediately be reached for comment Friday.

Kauai Fire Chief Robert Westerman has notified the company that Ventura is prohibited from flying the helicopter pending the outcome of the investigation.