Seatbelt violation triggers stop that nets alleged drug trafficker

A seatbelt violation was the reason for a stop that netted an alleged drug trafficker.

McCracken County Sheriff's deputies reportedly stopped a vehicle driven by 43-year-old Michael Smith of Brookport near Maple Street and Estelle in Paducah. Smith was allegedly not wearing a seatbelt and acting nervously during the encounter. A police K-9 did an open-air sniff, and is said to have hit on the possibility of drugs in the vehicle.

Deputies searched Smith's vehicle and reportedly located what was believed to be about 13 grams of methamphetamine in a magnetic container. Marijuana and drug paraphernalia were also said to have been found.

Smith was charged with trafficking in meth, possession of marijuana, and not wearing a seat belt.

The investigation is continuing.