LABETTE COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on drug allegations after a traffic stop.
Just after 7:30 p.m. on August 24, 2026, Lt. Christian Powell of the Altamont Police Department conducted a traffic stop for a speeding violation, according to a media release from police.
During initial contact with the vehicle's male driver and male passenger, Lt. Powell detected the odor of raw marijuana coming from the vehicle based on his training and experience.
Lt. Powell instructed both occupants to exit the vehicle so that a probable cause search for illegal narcotics could be conducted. Both individuals repeatedly refused to comply with his directives. Due to their behavior, Lt. Powell requested assistance from the Labette County Sheriff's Office. After the deputies' arrival, both subjects were detained in handcuffs, and Lt. Powell conducted a search of the vehicle.
During the search, marijuana was located in several areas of the vehicle. Lt. Powell also discovered a loaded semi-automatic handgun beneath a seat. A continued search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a cardboard shipping box in the trunk containing 291 factory-packaged THC marijuana vape cartridges, each containing 2 grams of liquid THC. The total amount seized was approximately 582 grams, or 1.28 pounds, of liquid THC.
After completing the search, Lt. Powell attempted to interview both subjects regarding the narcotics; however, they declined to provide statements. They did indicate that they had stopped in Altamont to visit a female resident who lives in Altamont. Both subjects were advised they were under arrest and were transported to the Labette County Jail in Oswego, Kansas.
The suspects were booked on requested charge of Distribution of Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Interference with a Law Enforcement Officer, No Drug Tax Stamp and a Maximum Speed Violation
Additionally, after reviewing the criminal histories of both subjects, it was determined that one individual had a prior felony conviction. As a result, Lt. Powell requested an additional charge of Criminal Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.