News Release

For further information please contact: Sergeant Mike Watson
(417) 359-1500 ext. 2229
DS2009-12
May 20, 2009

EMPHASIS: Cocaine Seizure On Interstate 44 In Jasper County


On May 19, 2009, a Missouri State Highway Patrol commercial vehicle officer stopped the driver of an eastbound tractor-trailer unit on Interstate 44 in Jasper County. The stop and subsequent investigation resulted in the seizure of approximately 12 kilograms of cocaine and the arrest of one person.

At approximately 7:45 p.m., the driver of a 1999 Freightliner tractor-trailer unit bearing Kentucky registration was stopped near the 28-mile marker in Jasper County. While inspecting paperwork, the commercial vehicle officer identified discrepancies regarding the driver’s trip and requested a trooper respond to assist. Suspicion of criminal activity prompted the trooper to ask for consent to search the vehicle, which was granted. The search revealed approximately 12 kilograms of cocaine hidden in two compartments within the sleeper area of the tractor.

The driver, Robert White Jr., 30, Houston, Texas, was arrested for 2nd degree drug trafficking and transported the Jasper County Jail in Carthage, Missouri.

The charge for which Robert White Jr. 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 it is to determine guilt or innocence.
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