On August 4, 2023, a routine traffic stop on IH-30 EB near the 122 MM near Sulphur Springs led to the discovery of narcotics and a stolen firearm, resulting in the detention and arrest of two individuals from Dallas.
The incident occurred shortly after midnight when a Hopkins County Sheriff's deputy noticed a vehicle with an obscured license plate. The deputy initiated the traffic stop and identified the driver as 21-year-old Niejel Lakes and the passenger as 21-year-old Amarrhe Thompson, both residents of Dallas.
During the traffic stop, the deputy noticed the distinct odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle, prompting them to conduct a probable cause search. The search revealed an ashtray containing smoked marijuana cigarette ends in the center console cup holder. Additionally, the deputy found a Glock 23 pistol under the driver's seat and a Smith & Wesson M&P in Thompson's purse.
Further inspection of the vehicle led to the discovery of a backpack hidden in the rear hatch. Inside the backpack, authorities found a scale, marijuana, and two pill bottles. One of the pill bottles contained several blue M30 pills, suspected to be Oxycontin, with a total approximate weight of 10.82 grams and 99 pills. The other pill bottle contained suspected MDMA pills, with a total approximate weight, including packaging, of 2.68 grams and six pills.
A records check on the Smith & Wesson handgun revealed that it had been reported stolen from the Mesquite Police Department. Consequently, both Lakes and Thompson were detained and read their rights.
Both were arrested and charged.
