News Release

For further information please contact: Trooper Nathan L. Wheeles
(573) 840-9500
January 15, 2009
E01092

EMPHASIS: Drug Arrests On I-55 In New Madrid County


On January 14, 2009, officers with the Missouri State Highway Patrol made two separate traffic stops, which resulted in the arrests of three suspects for trafficking in drugs. The first traffic stop was on a vehicle for following too close. During the course of the traffic stop, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity. Upon request, consent to search was granted. With the aid of the Highway Patrol canine, 2.3 ounces of crack cocaine and five ounces of marijuana were located. The traffic stop took place on Interstate 55 in New Madrid County. The driver, Jamie B. Matthews, 32, of Springfield, IL, and passenger Carl Carpenter, 37, of Memphis, TN, were arrested and charged with felony drug trafficking.
A separate traffic stop by a Missouri State Highway Patrol officer took place three hours later, and resulted in another arrest for trafficking in drugs. The vehicle was stopped for an equipment violation. During the course of the traffic stop, the trooper became suspicious and requested consent to search the vehicle. The driver gave consent, and with the aid of the Highway Patrol canine, 18 pounds of marijuana were located hidden inside the vehicle. The traffic stop occurred on I-55 in New Madrid County. The driver, Pedro Areitia, 25, of Edinburg, Texas, was arrested and charged with felony drug trafficking.
The charges for which these suspects have been arrested are mere accusation and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
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