Traffic Stop Leads To Drug Arrest

A Cocke County man is facing multiple charges following a traffic stop in Newport on Friday, September 5th.

Officer Justin Shelton reports spotting a green Chevy truck leaving a home on Mulberry Street known for heavy drug activity. The truck, driven by Joseph Collins, was stopped at the CVS parking lot for having illegal window tint.

A records check revealed Collins was driving on a revoked license. After giving verbal consent for a search, officers discovered digital scales, small baggies, fentanyl test kits, and glass smoking pipes inside the vehicle. They also found 4.1 grams of a crystal-like substance believed to be methamphetamine, and more than 36 grams of a green leafy substance presumed to be marijuana.

Collins was also carrying over 600 dollars in small bills. He was arrested and transported to the Cocke County Jail.