News Release

For further information please contact: Sergeant Mike Watson
(417) 359-1500 ext.2229
DS2008-29
October 28, 2008

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


On October 26, 2008, 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 30 pounds of marijuana and the arrest of one person.

At approximately 9:25 p.m., the driver of a 1997 Freightliner truck tractor pulling a box-type trailer was stopped at the 23-mile marker. While the commercial vehicle officer was inspecting the vehicle, a trooper arrived to assist. Inconsistencies identified during the traffic stop prompted the trooper to ask for permission to search the tractor and trailer. Consent was given for the trailer, however, was denied for the tractor. A Jasper County Sheriff’s Department K-9 was used and indicated a positive response to the tractor. Located in the tractor was approximately 30 pounds of marijuana concealed in the sleeper area.

The driver, James L. Bradsher Jr., 42, Hurdle Mills, North Carolina, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and transported to the Jasper County Jail in Carthage, Missouri.

The charge for which James L. Bradsher 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.




(###)