Knox deputies recover items loaded with crystal methamphetamine

Knox County Sheriff’s deputies conducted a traffic stop Sunday night in Gray and recovered two bags and three pipes, “all loaded with crystal methamphetamine.”

Deputy William Stewart, the department’s public affairs officer, said Deputies John Luttrell and Andrew Lawson conducted the traffic stop on U.S. 25E after observing the vehicle swerving in and out of traffic and following at unsafe distances.

“After stopping the vehicle the three subjects, two males and one female, inside the vehicle were observed passing items to each other,” Stewart stated. “After the occupants were confronted, it was determined that the two males were passing narcotics to the female in an attempt to have her hide them inside a body cavity.”

Stewart said deputies recovered two bags of suspected methamphetamine, another plastic bag containing suspected Fentanyl, which is an opioid pain medication, marijuana and the three pipes.

In addition, deputies recovered $2,050 in cash and two government EBT cards.

Deputies arrested 46-year-old Leslie L. Browning of Fourmile on charges of tampering with physical evidence, possession of methamphetamine and possession of marijuana.

Scott Browning, 42, of Pineville was charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance – methamphetamine, trafficking in marijuana, tampering with physical evidence, possession of drug paraphernalia and knowing/fraudulent use of ID card or electronic code for benefits.

Randall Bays, 56, of Louisville was charged with first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance – methamphetamine, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance – Fentanyl, tampering with physical evidence and public intoxication – controlled substance.

The individuals were lodged in the Knox County Detention Center.