State Trooper Makes Drug Bust in Haywood County
Tuesday, March 08, 2011 | 10:51am
NASHVILLE --- Trooper Jeff Fuller of the Tennessee Highway Patrol discovered cocaine during a traffic stop in Haywood County on Tuesday, March 1, 2011, landing two individuals in jail.
At approximately 3:51 p.m., the THP Memphis District Interdiction Plus Team Leader stopped a black 2008 Dodge Avenger with New York tags for a window tint violation on Interstate 40 eastbound near the 45 mile marker. After becoming suspicious, Trooper Fuller requested assistance from West Tennessee Drug Task Force Agent Dustin James. Officers were granted consent to search the vehicle and Agent James deployed his K-9, receiving positive alerts on the trunk and the driver door. Further investigation revealed 6.3 ounces of powder cocaine wrapped in black electrical tape inside the passenger’s purse.
Driver Justino Sanchez, Jr., 30, of Brockport, N.Y. and passenger Krystal Ann Cardenas, 22, of Splendora, Texas, were arrested and taken to Haywood County Jail in Brownsville, Tenn. They both have been charged with possession of schedule II substance with intent to deliver. Sanchez was also charged with driving on a suspended license and violation of the window tint law. The vehicle was seized in accordance with state law.
A photo of the drug seizure is attached.
The Tennessee Department of Safety’s (www.TN.Gov/safety) mission is to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public. The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.
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