News Release

For further information please contact: Sergeant Mike Watson
(417) 359-1500 ext.2229
DS2009-4
February 17, 2009

EMPHASIS: Marijuana Seizure In Jasper County On I-44


On February 17, 2009, a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper stopped the driver of an eastbound passenger vehicle on Interstate 44 in Jasper County for a traffic violation. The stop and subsequent investigation resulted in the seizure of approximately 79 pounds of marijuana and the arrest of one person.

At approximately 8:30 a.m., the driver of a 2009 Chevrolet HHR, bearing California registration, was stopped near the 13-mile marker for following another vehicle too closely. Inconsistencies identified during the traffic stop prompted the trooper to ask for permission to search the vehicle, which was denied. A Joplin Police Department K-9 was used and indicated a positive response to the vehicle. Located in luggage in the rear of the vehicle was approximately 79 pounds of marijuana.

The driver, Hiram L. Robinson Jr., 32, Detroit, Michigan, was arrested for first degree drug trafficking and transported to the Jasper County Jail, Carthage, Missouri.

The charge for which Hiram L. Robinson 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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