During a seemingly routine traffic stop last night on Bethel Avenue, officers from the East District uncovered more than just an inoperable brake light. In a post on the Knoxville Police Department's Facebook page, details of the incident emerged, highlighting the discovery of firearms and illegal substances within the stopped vehicle.
The initial stop, which began over a minor vehicular infraction, took a serious turn as the driver gave incorrect identifying information, prompting officers to conduct a more thorough probe. Removed from the vehicle for the investigation, both the driver and his passenger were found to have a rifle, a handgun, and approximately a gram of suspected crack cocaine, according to the Knoxville Police Department. Charged with the unlawful possession of these items, the 53-year-old driver and 19-year-old woman also faced drug charges.
Not only were the pair apprehended for these offenses, but it was also discovered that the man had prior legal troubles. Bearing an outstanding warrant out of Blount County for failing to appear on a driving on a suspended license charge, the male's encounter with law enforcement deepened.
