A late-night speeding stop in La Vergne ended with a 17-year-old in custody after officers say they found alcohol, a handgun, and a substantial quantity of methamphetamine inside the vehicle. The teen, whose name has not been released because of age, faces a mix of felony and misdemeanor counts, according to the department's initial statement. Two other juveniles were in the car as passengers, police said.
Speeding Stop Uncovers Alcohol, Gun And Meth
La Vergne police say officers pulled the vehicle over for speeding at about 9:30 p.m., then found multiple plastic baggies consistent with resale, several open beer cans, and a firearm inside. The 17-year-old driver, who admitted to drinking three beers before getting behind the wheel, was charged with DUI (first offense), manufacture/delivery/sale of methamphetamine, possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony, reckless endangerment with a weapon, driving while in possession of methamphetamine, possession of unlawful drug paraphernalia and driving without a license, according to Facebook. Two juveniles were riding in the vehicle, police added, and officers described the seizure as taking narcotics off the streets.
Serious Felony Counts And Possible Penalties
The drug and weapons counts carry significant penalties under state law. Methamphetamine-related manufacture or delivery is prosecuted under Justia, while possessing a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony is a separate offense with mandatory minimum sentences under Justia. Those firearm enhancements can add years to a sentence and may make defendants ineligible for diversion programs, and drug penalties depend on the amount involved and intent to sell.
What Police Say Comes Next
The department used the case to remind parents and drivers about the danger of mixing drugs, alcohol, and firearms around minors. "Situations involving drugs, alcohol, and firearms, especially when juveniles are involved, pose a serious risk to public safety," the department wrote in its Facebook post. Police did not release details about the juvenile's custody status, bond, or when the juvenile is expected to appear in court.
How To Reach La Vergne Police
Anyone with information about the stop or related activity is asked to contact the La Vergne Police Department's non-emergency line. The city's main police station at 5093 Murfreesboro Road is listed on the City of La Vergne website. The department has not provided additional details beyond what it posted on social media.
