The Kentucky State Police Drug Enforcement and Special Investigations East Unit (DESI East) arrested a Rockcastle County man early Thursday morning near Corbin after locating approximately four ounces of methamphetamine in a lock box located in the trunk of his car.
Michael K. Barnes, 35, of Mt. Vernon was lodged in the Whitley County Detention Center on charges of first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance – methamphetamine – greater than two gram, and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon
Troopers located the drugs after KSP K-9 Tony alerted to their presence following the traffic stop on Interstate-75 near Corbin.
According to the arrest citation, Barnes was a passenger in the vehicle that was stopped at approximately 1:30 a.m.
Troopers initially arrested Barnes on an active warrant.
K-9 Tony was deployed and alerted on the vehicle, leading law enforcement to conduct a search during which they found the lock box in the trunk.
“(Barnes) had the key to the lock in his pocket,” officers stated noting they discovered approximately one-quarter of a pound (113.3 grams).
Upon further questioning, officers stated that Barnes admitted to having a firearm in the glove box.
“The above is a convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing a firearm,” officers stated.
