A routine traffic stop in Lincoln Parish escalated into a serious arrest involving suspected Marijuana Distribution, highlighting how a simple speeding violation can uncover far more serious criminal activity.
A Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s sergeant stopped a Jeep on Hwy. 80 in Simsboro after observing the vehicle traveling 73 mph in a 55 mph zone. Upon approaching the driver, identified as Trey Moore, 32, of Arcadia, the sergeant immediately noticed the odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle.
Moore was asked to step outside the Jeep, and when questioned, he claimed that his passenger, identified as Aniya Hill, 20, of Ruston, had been the one smoking marijuana. Moore also stated Hill had a small amount of the substance in her purse. When confronted, Hill admitted she had marijuana in her purse. This admission led the sergeant to conduct a probable cause search of the vehicle.
The search uncovered a small bag of marijuana inside Hill’s purse, as well as another bag in a headphones case located in the backseat on the driver’s side. What made the situation more concerning was the discovery of more than $11,000 in cash, consisting of both large and small denominations, in the Jeep’s center console. Deputies also found additional marijuana, a digital scale, and a box of unused sandwich bags concealed in a grocery bag beneath the passenger seat.
The total amount of marijuana recovered was approximately 350 grams. Investigators noted that the combination of bulk cash, packaging materials, and digital scales is consistent with activities tied to Marijuana Distribution rather than personal use.
During questioning, Moore initially claimed the money belonged to him but insisted the marijuana under the passenger seat was Hill’s. In contrast, Hill told deputies the marijuana was actually Moore’s. These conflicting statements further raised suspicion that both individuals were involved in Marijuana Distribution.
Based on the evidence, deputies concluded that the cash, and paraphernalia were strong indicators of the marijuana distribution. Both Moore and Hill were arrested on charges of possession of marijuana distribution and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Authorities emphasized that large-scale possession and materials tied to Marijuana Distribution are taken very seriously in Louisiana. While marijuana laws vary across the United States, possession of such quantities particularly with packaging materials and scales strongly suggests commercial activity.
This case serves as a reminder of how quickly a routine stop can escalate into major criminal charges, especially when drugs and cash are involved. Both suspects face significant legal challenges as prosecutors pursue the case under state laws targeting Marijuana Distribution.
This report is based on information released by law enforcement. All individuals named remain innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
