Corbin man found with two pounds of crystal meth, could soon face federal charges in case

A Corbin man could be facing federal charges after allegedly being found with 2 pounds of crystal methamphetamine during a traffic stop last month.

As part of a joint operation by the Laurel County Sherriff’s Department, London Police Department, Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department and the FBI, a black Nissan Altima believed to be involved in the organized trafficking of illegal narcotics was followed to Louisville on Nov. 18. During their surveillance, units following the vehicle lost sight due to heavy traffic in the area.

After losing the vehicle, the Laurel County Sheriff’s Department and London Police Department were contacted to attempt to intercept the vehicle.

An interdiction squad with Laurel County Sheriff’s Department intercepted the vehicle traveling southbound on I-75 and conducted a traffic stop. During the stop, the driver was identified as Derrick S. Lee, 33.

A search of the vehicle was conducted, in which 2 pounds of crystal methamphetamine was discovered and seized.

Lee was arrested and charged with first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and a variety of traffic-related violations.

Laurel County Sheriff’s Public Affairs Deputy Gilbert Acciardo said Tuesday that while none have officially been filed yet, that due to the large quantity of narcotics found in Lee’s vehicle that federal charges were “definitely likely.”

Lee currently remains jailed in the Laurel County Correctional Facility.