MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Troop E Headquarters - 4947 Highway 67 North - Poplar Bluff, MO 63901


News Release

For further information please contact: Sergeant Dale H. Moreland
(573) 840-9500
E092138
September 21, 2009

EMPHASIS: Traffic Stop On Interstate 55 Results in Drug Arrest



On September 17, 2009, at approximately 1:20 p.m., a member of the Missouri State Highway Patrol stopped a 1997 Ford Crown Victoria traveling north on Interstate 55 in New Madrid County for a traffic violation.
Marvin B. Thomas, 18, of Sikeston, Missouri, was the driver of a vehicle stopped for a traffic violation. During the course of the traffic stop, the trooper noticed the odor of burnt marijuana. After consent to search was obtained, one pound of marijuana was located inside the trunk. Thomas and Tenton L.Coleman, 20, of Oran, Missouri, were arrested for possession of marijuana and possession with intent to distribute, and taken to the New Madrid County Jail.
The charges for which Thomas and Coleman 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 is to determine guilt or innocence.


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