News Release

For further information please contact: Sgt. Mike Watson
417-359-1500 ext. 2229
DS2008-2
April 14, 2008

EMPHASIS: Traffic Stop On I-44 Results In Marijuana Seizure In Jasper County


On April 12, 2008, a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper stopped the driver of an eastbound Ford Fusion on Interstate 44 in Jasper County for a traffic violation. The stop and subsequent investigation resulted in the seizure of approximately 10 pounds of marijuana.
At approximately 10:44 p.m., the driver of a 2008 Ford Fusion bearing Arizona license plates was stopped near the 20-mile marker for a lane violation. Inconsistencies identified during the traffic stop prompted the trooper to ask for consent to search the vehicle, which was granted. The search revealed approximately 10 pounds of marijuana concealed in the trunk of the car. Following the arrest of the driver, troopers determined a second vehicle containing two additional subjects was assisting the driver of the Ford Fusion in the transportation of the marijuana. Troopers were able to locate the second vehicle, a 2008 Toyota Camry bearing Indiana license plates, near the 29-mile marker in Jasper County and take both occupants in custody.
The driver of the Ford Fusion, Cheri Horne, 36, of Indianapolis, Indiana, as well as the driver of the Toyota Camry, James O. Hawkins, 32, of Louisville, Kentucky, and the passenger, Melvin E. Riding, 28, of Indianapolis, Indiana, were arrested for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. All three were transported to the Jasper County Jail, Carthage, Missouri.
The charges for which Cheri Horne, James O. Hawkins, and Melvin E. Riding were arrested are mere accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty it is to determine guilt or innocence.
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