05/09/2009

Traffic stop leads to methamphetamine charges for Smithland Man

At approximately 6:13 PM a 1995 Chevrolet Monte Carlo was stopped on US 45 South of Lone Oak after it was observed weaving within its lane. The stop was initiated for suspicion of DUI. Upon approach of the vehicle the driver was exhibit behavior that is consistent with being under the influence of methamphetamine. The driver, 21 year old Matthew R. Eggleston, of Smithland, was arrested for operating a motor vehicle under the influence 1st offense and failure to produce an insurance card. A search of his vehicle revealed numerous items of drug paraphernalia as well as 3 individually packaged baggies of methamphetamine, a set of digital scales and an undisclosed amount of US currency. Mr. Eggleston was also charged with carrying a concealed deadly weapon and tampering with physical evidence after he attempted to discard a pair of brass knuckles in the rear seat of a McCracken County Deputies patrol car.

The methamphetamine that was seized appeared to be crystal methamphetamine. This is a stronger form of the drug and is usually produced in "Super Labs" in Mexico. Mr. Eggleston was found to be in possession of 9.7 grams of the drug at the time of his arrest. The estimated street value of the amount that Mr. Eggleston possessed is in excess of $1000.00. The investigation into this case is ongoing and additional charges are possible.

Arrested: Matthew R. Eggleston

Charges: Operating a Motor vehicle Under the influence 1st offense aggrivated circumstance.

Failure to Produce insurance Card.

Trafficking in Methamphetamine 1st offense. Class C Felony punishable up to 10 years in prison.

Possesson of Drug Paraphernalia 1st Offense. Class A Misdemeanor punishable up to 12 months in Jail.

Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon. Class A Misdemeanor punishable up to 12 months in Jail.

Tampering with Physical Evidence. Class D Felony. Punishable up to 5 years in prison.