LA VERGNE, Tenn. – A late-night traffic stop for reckless driving turned into a major drug seizure after officers in La Vergne uncovered multiple controlled substances and weapons during a Saturday night investigation.
The incident began when an officer with the La Vergne Police Department reportedly saw a vehicle racing down Murfreesboro Road at nearly 75 miles per hour around 10:36 p.m. According to police, the officer turned around, quickly caught up to the speeding vehicle, and initiated a stop on Dick Buchanan Street. The driver exited the vehicle immediately, prompting the officer to request backup.
Traffic Stop Leads to Suspicion of Impairment
Once additional units arrived, officers said they noticed a strong smell of alcohol and marijuana coming from the vehicle and driver. Based on those observations, police conducted a probable cause search of the car.
Officers Discover Multiple Drugs and Weapons
During the search, officers reported finding a variety of illegal items and controlled substances, including:
- Over 100 grams of marijuana
- Crushed oxycodone
- Ecstasy
- Adderall
- THC wax
- Brass knuckles
- A digital scale
Police said the quantity and variety of substances suggested both personal use and potential distribution. The presence of prohibited weapons and paraphernalia added to the severity of the charges.
Driver Arrested on Multiple Felony Counts
Following the discovery, officers arrested the driver on several charges, including:
- Felony Evading
- Reckless Driving
- Felony Possession of Schedule I, II, and VI substances
- Prohibited Weapons
- Drug Paraphernalia
Authorities have not yet released the driver’s name. The investigation remains ongoing as officers review evidence collected at the scene.
Community Concerns Over Reckless Driving
Local residents have raised concerns in recent months over the increasing number of high-speed incidents along Murfreesboro Road. Traffic stops like this highlight the risks associated with reckless driving, especially when impaired or carrying illegal substances. Police emphasize that excessive speeding can quickly escalate into dangerous situations for both drivers and the public.
How Officers Handle Probable Cause Searches
In cases like this, the smell of alcohol or marijuana can legally justify a probable cause search. This allows officers to look inside a vehicle without a warrant when they reasonably believe illegal activity is taking place. The process often leads to the discovery of additional offenses beyond the initial traffic violation.
Drug and Weapon Possession Remains a Priority for Local Enforcement
The La Vergne Police Department has made several drug-related arrests in recent months as part of its ongoing focus on roadway safety and narcotics enforcement. Incidents involving a mix of controlled substances and weapons are treated with heightened concern due to the potential for distribution and violent crime.
Conclusion
What began as a simple speeding stop turned into a significant drug and weapons seizure, resulting in multiple felony charges. Police encourage drivers to obey posted speed limits and remind the public that officers will continue monitoring high-traffic corridors for dangerous behavior.
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