NEWS RELEASE

For further information please contact: Sergeant Dale H. Moreland
(573) 840-9500
052125
May 21, 2008

EMPHASIS: Traffic Stop On Interstate-55 Results In Drug Arrest




On May 15, 2008, at approximately 10:39 p.m. a member of the Missouri State Highway Patrol stopped a 2000 Dodge Stratus traveling north on Interstate 55 in New Madrid County for an equipment violation.
Michael J. Whitley, 29, of New Madrid, Missouri, was the driver of the vehicle stopped for an equipment violation. During the course of the traffic stop, permission to search was requested and granted. During the search blister packs containing pseudoephrine were located behind the glove compartment. Michael J. Whitley was arrested for possession of a methamphetamine precursor drug with intent to manufacture methamphetamine, and was taken to the New Madrid County Jail.
The charge for which Michael J. Whitley was arrested is mere accusation and is not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charge must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.



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