A routine traffic stop in Knoxville’s Island Home neighborhood turned into something straight out of a crime drama on Monday, when officers say they found a Florida man riding around with fake FBI-style gear, weapons and suspected drugs. The discovery has sparked a federal review as investigators work to figure out whether anyone intended to pose as an agent.
What officers say they found
According to an arrest report obtained by WVLT, officers searching the vehicle reported uncovering 15 metal shields that appeared to mimic FBI and other agency credentials, along with FBI-branded clothing and folders. The car also allegedly held multiple Airsoft guns, three rifle barrels, three wooden rifle stocks, several large knives, a sword and a fixed-blade knife with integrated brass knuckles. Officers say they further located 61 rounds of ammunition, suspected marijuana and drug paraphernalia.
The traffic stop that led to the search
As reported by KFVS, officers pulled the car over on Hillwood Drive after one of them saw the driver taking photos of a residence and noticed a burned-out brake light. A K9 unit then alerted to the possible presence of narcotics, which gave officers cause to search the vehicle and uncover the reported stash.
Charges and court date
Court records identify the driver as 40-year-old Cody Strausborger of Florida. He faces weapons and drug counts, including possession of a weapon by a convicted felon and prohibited-weapons charges, along with a marijuana-related possession or casual-exchange count. A bonded arraignment is scheduled for May 7, according to WATE 6 On Your Side.
Legal risks for impersonation and felon possession
Under federal law, convicted felons are generally barred from possessing firearms or ammunition under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g), per LII. Tennessee’s unlawful-carry statute, T.C.A. § 39-17-1307, likewise prohibits firearm possession by people with certain felony convictions, with penalties that vary depending on prior offenses and the circumstances of the case, per Justia. Prosecutors can also take potential impersonation seriously when federal insignia or agent-style credentials turn up in a case.
An FBI agent responded to the traffic stop and agents collected the items for further review, according to WATE 6 On Your Side. Strausborger remains in custody ahead of his arraignment next month.
