A Texas man was arrested July 1 after Louisiana State Police discovered suspected narcotics and unrestrained children during a traffic stop on Interstate 20 in Webster Parish.
A state trooper stopped a silver Chevrolet Malibu traveling eastbound near milepost 48 for an improper lane use violation. The driver, identified as Khalil Bell, 31, of Bay City, Texas, was asked to step out of the vehicle and speak with the trooper at the rear of the car.
According to the report, Bell appeared very nervous and attempted to avoid answering questions by showing his phone and justifying his travel plans. Bell consented to a search of the vehicle.
Troopers located three kilograms of an unknown substance wrapped in black tape hidden under the hood in a natural void near the windshield wipers. Three unrestrained children under the age of 7 were found in the back seat. The children’s mother, who was the passenger, was not charged.
Bell was booked into the Webster Parish jail on charges of possession of a Schedule II controlled substance with intent to distribute, three counts of possession of a controlled substance in the presence of a minor, and three counts of no child restraint.
All subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.