What was thought to be a routine traffic stop on Interstate 35 in Kyle Feb. 2 eventually led authorities to seize more than nine pounds of marijuana, an illegal firearm and more than $16,000 in cash.
Authorities have charged William Douglass, 31, of Kyle, with possession of marijuana between five and 50 pounds, which is a third degree felony.
Douglass was also charged with resisting arrest, a Class A misdemeanor, interfering with public duties, a Class B misdemeanor, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, which is third degree felony.
Jeff Barnett, Kyle Police chief, said a Kyle Police officer conducted a traffic stop on I-35 access road near the 217 exit Feb. 2 for a traffic violation. Barnett said the officer smelled marijuana when they approached the vehicle, which prompted a probable cause search.
While searching the vehicle, the officer discovered an undisclosed amount of illegal drugs, along with a firearm and an undisclosed amount of money.
Douglass was placed under arrest at that time, Barnett said. However, officers continued their investigation and obtained a search warrant that was executed in the 100 block of Amber Ash.
Officers discovered more packaged marijuana at the residence, Barnett said. The total amount of marijuana collected in the two busts has an estimated street value of $40,000.
Barnett said the bust yielded the highest amount of drugs seized by Kyle Police in “quite a while.” However, he said Kyle Police make drug arrests of a smaller nature on a weekly basis. Several years ago, Barnett said Kyle Police raided a major marijuana grow operation that was taking place in the city.
Barnett said authorities have seen an uptick in drug trafficking in the Central Texas area. Drugs that are being trafficked range from marijuana to methamphetamine and now prescription drugs. I-35 has played a role in the increase of drug trafficking, which has spread along the corridor and into neighboring communities, Barnett said.
“As urban sprawl pushes people into communities outside of Austin, drug trafficking is also moving into the suburbs as well,” Barnett said.
Law enforcement works to combat the issue on several fronts, Barnett said. One is obtaining tips and calls from neighbors about suspicious activity.
Agencies such as Kyle Police are also partnering with departments that have K9 units. Barnett said Kyle routinely works with Austin, New Braunfels and San Marcos Police K9 units.
Many area departments also work closely with the Hays County Narcotics Task Force (HCNTF).
“Officers share tips they receive on those who are arrested, or they receive tips through Crime Stoppers,” Barnett said. “We train officers on how to stop and identify the common signs of drug trafficking. We’re seeing some of that going on now.”
Douglass was released from the Hays County Jail Feb. 3 on $46,000 bond.
