A Minden police officer patrolling Bayou Avenue on July 25 observed a red Chevy Malibu driving 40 mph in a 25 mph zone. Although the officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop by activating emergency lights and sirens, the driver, Malik Hill, 27, delayed stopping for approximately 150 yards down High Street.
Due to officer safety concerns, two officers conducted a felony stop, commanding Hill to exit the vehicle at gunpoint. Hill complied with all commands and was safely detained.
Upon questioning, Hill admitted to having a small amount of marijuana in the car. “It is noteworthy we could smell a strong odor of marijuana emitting from the vehicle upon exiting our patrol units. Due to Hill’s admission and due to plain smell doctrine, we then conducted a probable cause search of the vehicle,” the officer reported.
The search revealed two separately packaged bags in the center console weighing 12.5 grams and 3.92 grams, respectively. Additionally, a glass dispensary jar from California containing 0.74 grams of natural marijuana was found. Post-Miranda, Hill claimed he possessed a prescription but was unable to provide proof. The marijuana was not in the proper prescription packaging.
Hill admitted to repackaging the marijuana into two bags and stated he was taking them to his girlfriend’s house to smoke with her. Hill was taken into custody for possession of Schedule I with intent to distribute by his own admission and for speeding. He was transported to the Minden Police Department for booking.
All subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.