Tennessee state troopers today arrested two Florida men after they discovered one was a fugitive from justice and evidence of methamphetamine making supplies during a driver license checkpoint in Rhea County.
Lieutenant Daniel Ruskey and Trooper Pat Patterson stopped a pick-up truck during the scheduled checkpoint on State Hwy 68 at Shut In Gap Road. The troopers then determined the driver, Richard Williams, 38, was driving on a suspended license. Further investigation revealed the passenger, James Sparks, 33, was wanted by Bay County, Fla. officials for a probation violation.
After placing both subjects into custody, the troopers searched the vehicle and found several components used in the process of making methamphetamine. They uncovered an illegal knife.
Williams was charged with multiple counts including making a false statement, possession of drug paraphernalia, initiation of a process intended to result in the making of methamphetamine, driving on a suspended license, seatbelt violation, violation of insurance law, violation of registration law, and possession of a prohibited weapon. Sparks was placed into custody as a fugitive from justice and will be held for extradition to Florida.
The troopers also seized the vehicle under Tennessee law.