Poplarville Police Department

Proactive Patrol leads to Felony Drug Arrest

On May 4, 2023, an officer with the Poplarville Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a 1994 Dodge pickup truck for speeding 35 mph in a 25mph speed zone and for only having one headlight. As the officer approached the vehicle, he observed the driver, later identified as Howard L. Hart, making movements as if he were hiding something under the seat. Once the Officer made contact with Hart, he noticed the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle.

A Probable Cause search was conducted and the officer recovered a clear plastic baggy containing approximately 2 grams of marijuana and a small piece of a plastic baggy containing .5 grams of methamphetamine. Also recovered was a .22 caliber Davis Industries derringer.

Hart was given citations for Speeding and No Proof of Insurance. He was arrested for Possession of Marijuana in a Motor Vehicle and Felony Possession of a Controlled Substance While in Possession of a Firearm.