Soddy-Daisy, TN – A routine traffic stop involving a suspected stolen vehicle escalated into a major narcotics seizure early Friday morning, leading to the arrest of three individuals and the recovery of methamphetamine, fentanyl, cash, and other illegal items. Deputies say the discovery unfolded within minutes of locating the stolen vehicle and quickly revealed a larger criminal operation.
Traffic Stop Leads to Major Seizure
Deputies located the suspected stolen vehicle around 2:15 a.m. near McCallie Ferry Road and Mount Tabor Road. According to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, the vehicle’s status was confirmed, prompting a stop on Bretton Drive. Inside the car, deputies found three individuals, including the driver and two passengers.
The driver was identified as Joshua Leroy Tate, who investigators say was immediately found in possession of a large quantity of illegal drugs and cash.
What Deputies Found in the Vehicle
A search of Tate uncovered:
- 115 grams of methamphetamine
- 4.1 grams of fentanyl
- $440 in cash
- A prohibited weapon, according to the release
Deputies noted that both meth and fentanyl amounts indicated clear intent for resale. The discovery of multiple drug types, combined with cash and a weapon, escalated the case into a felony-level narcotics investigation.
Driver Has Prior Arrests and Active Warrants
Officials report that Tate has a documented criminal history and was already wanted on open warrants. These warrants involve probation violations in both Hamilton and Sequatchie Counties. His latest charges include:
- Motor vehicle theft
- Methamphetamine for resale
- Fentanyl for resale
- Possession of a prohibited weapon
Investigators say these violations reflect an ongoing pattern of drug-related and property crimes in the region.
Two Passengers Also Face Drug Charges
The two passengers, identified as Rikita Casey and David “Junior” Stewart, are also facing serious charges. Both were arrested for methamphetamine for resale, according to the sheriff’s office.
Stewart faces an additional charge for possession of drug paraphernalia, which deputies say was found during the on-scene search. Their arrests add to a growing list of drug cases tied to nighttime enforcement along rural and semi-rural road networks in Hamilton County.
Why This Arrest Matters for Local Enforcement
The seizure underscores the continuing effort by law enforcement to curb the spread of methamphetamine and fentanyl in Tennessee communities. Fentanyl in particular remains a leading factor in overdose deaths nationwide, and agencies continue to emphasize the danger even small amounts pose.
Late-night patrols, such as the one that led to these arrests, have become a critical tool in identifying suspected stolen vehicles and drug trafficking routes. Deputies say increased vigilance in areas like Soddy-Daisy often leads to significant narcotics interruptions like this one.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have not yet released additional details regarding the origin of the stolen vehicle or whether the suspects are tied to broader trafficking networks. The case remains under investigation, with more information expected as deputies continue processing evidence.
Residents in the area are encouraged to stay informed as drug enforcement efforts intensify across Hamilton County. Officials say community awareness and reporting suspicious activity remain essential to reducing drug-related crime.
If you live in Soddy-Daisy or nearby communities, share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below.
