THP Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Arrest in Bedford County

NASHVILLE --- A Tennessee State Trooper arrested a fugitive from justice on drug charges following a traffic stop in Bedford County on Saturday night.

Trooper Barry Qualls stopped a 2005 Ford Mustang on Highway 231 N at Whiteside Hill Road for failure to maintain proper lane at approximately 10:03 p.m. Saturday. Upon contact with the occupants, the driver explained that he had a suspended license.  Trooper Qualls also observed drug paraphernalia on the center console. 

He continued questioning the vehicle occupants, as a city police officer arrived on the scene for assistance. Trooper Qualls then secured the driver and passenger in separate locations and conducted a probable cause search on the vehicle. Inside the console, he discovered a prescription pill bottle containing approximately 13 grams of marijuana, along with medication not prescribed to either individual.

Further investigation revealed a Glock 22 model .40 caliber pistol, one ounce of cocaine and $4,659.00 in U.S. currency inside the passenger’s purse.

Both vehicle occupants were arrested and transported to the Bedford County Jail.

The driver of the vehicle, William Humphrey, 30, and passenger Whitney Houston, 25, both of Nashville, were charged with possession of a firearm during commission of a felony, conspiracy to distribute schedule II drugs, and possession with intent to resale schedule II drugs. 

Humphrey was also charged with simple possession of schedule II drugs, simple possession of schedule IV drugs and possession without a prescription (two counts). He was also cited for open container, a seat belt violation, driving on a suspended license and failure to maintain proper lane.   

It was also discovered that Humphrey was wanted by the U.S. Marshals on a weapons charge and had an active warrant out of Davidson County for a parole violation. He will await extradition from the U.S. Marshals. 

The currency and vehicle were seized in accordance with state law.

A booking photo of the suspects may be obtained from the Bedford County Jail.

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security’s (www.TN.Gov/safety) mission is to ensure that our state is a safe, secure place in which to live, work and travel; enforce the law with integrity; and provide customer-focused services professionally and efficiently.