Traffic stop leads to an arrest and seizure of methamphetamine

MENDEZ, MARTHA SOFIAOn Monday, October 19, 2015, at approximately 945am, a minor traffic infraction prompted the stop of a Chrysler mini-van in Sweetwater, leading to the arrest of one occupant and seizure of a substance determined to be methamphetamine.

A Nolan County deputy stopped a silver Chrysler Town & Country driven by a Sweetwater man for a minor traffic infraction in the 300 block of 4th Street. The driver was accompanied by passenger, Martha Mendez of Sweetwater. Both occupants were requested to exit the vehicle where a roadside investigation could be conducted.

While speaking with the male subject, a pat down was conducted where indicators of criminal activity were observed; thereafter consent to search the vehicle was requested and received. The deputy then notified a female deputy that was in the area for assistance, and after her arrival, a pat down of Mendez was conducted which lead to the discovery of a small plastic baggie containing suspected methamphetamine.

Mendez was placed under arrest and transported to the Nolan County jail where she was charged with the felony offense of possession of methamphetamine. The case will be filed with the 32nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.