Somerset, KY – Three Pulaski County residents were arrested following a traffic stop on Highway 461 after police discovered over 225 grams of methamphetamine and multiple controlled substances inside their vehicle. The arrest occurred on October 27, following erratic driving that caught the attention of law enforcement officers.
The Incident: Traffic Stop Leads to Major Drug Discovery
According to the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office, officers conducted a traffic stop after observing a vehicle speeding and repeatedly crossing the center line along Highway 461. The driver, identified as 48-year-old David Pyles of Somerset, was accompanied by two passengers, Autumn Parrett and Joshua Barnett.
Deputies noted suspicious behavior during the stop — Pyles allegedly revved the engine repeatedly, while one passenger in the back seat was seen moving erratically. These actions prompted officers to call for additional support, including a K-9 unit trained to detect narcotics.
After the K-9 gave a positive alert for drugs, detectives ordered all three occupants out of the vehicle and conducted a thorough search.
Investigation and Evidence Seized
During the search, police discovered 225.9 grams of methamphetamine, along with a bag containing four Gabapentin tablets, one Xanax pill, marijuana, and various drug paraphernalia.
Authorities said the quantity of methamphetamine found was consistent with trafficking rather than personal use, leading to multiple felony charges. Officers also noted that Pyles had a prior drug-related conviction, which elevated the severity of the charges filed against him.
The seized narcotics were transported to a Kentucky State Police crime lab for verification and evidence processing.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Following the discovery, David Pyles was placed under arrest and charged with:
- Trafficking in a Controlled Substance (First-Degree, Second Offense)
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Failure to Maintain Required Insurance
- Speeding (10 MPH Over the Limit)
His passengers, Autumn Parrett and Joshua Barnett, were also detained and are expected to face drug-related charges pending lab results and further investigation. All three were transported to the Pulaski County Detention Center, where they remain in custody.
Officials have not yet released the full details regarding the passengers’ charges, but prosecutors indicated that additional counts may be filed in connection with possession and complicity in trafficking.
Statements and Community Reaction
In a press release, Pulaski County Sheriff Bobby Jones commended the officers and K-9 unit involved for their swift response and professionalism.
“This traffic stop demonstrates how routine patrols can lead to the removal of significant amounts of dangerous drugs from our community,” Jones said. “We remain committed to keeping Pulaski County safe and holding traffickers accountable.”
Local residents have expressed relief following the arrests, noting that methamphetamine remains one of the county’s most pressing drug problems. Community leaders praised law enforcement’s continued vigilance in curbing trafficking along major routes such as Highway 461, which is frequently used for narcotics transportation.
Backgroud and Broader Context
Pulaski County has seen an uptick in drug-related arrests over the past year, as authorities intensify efforts to target methamphetamine distribution networks across southern Kentucky. According to the Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy, meth continues to be the most frequently seized illicit drug in the state.
In 2024 alone, Kentucky law enforcement agencies have confiscated hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine, reflecting the ongoing battle against synthetic drug trafficking that has impacted both rural and urban areas.
Ongoing Developments and Next Steps
The case remains under investigation by the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office and the Kentucky State Police. Prosecutors are expected to present evidence to a grand jury in the coming weeks to determine whether further indictments will be issued against Parrett and Barnett.
Authorities confirmed that Pyles could face enhanced sentencing due to his prior conviction if found guilty of the new trafficking charge.
Conclusion
The Pulaski County drug bust serves as a reminder of the persistent threat of methamphetamine trafficking in Kentucky. Thanks to the proactive efforts of law enforcement, another major quantity of drugs has been removed from local circulation — a step forward in the county’s ongoing fight against narcotics.
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