At 11:23 am on January 2, 2024, a Hopkins County Deputy observed a Mazda CX5 traveling at 67 miles per hour in a 60-mile-per-hour zone on State Highway 11. The vehicle, a 2021 Mazda CX5 in gray, was pulled over near County Road 4713.
The driver and sole occupant, identified as 28-year-old Kavrin Rapheal Massey of Greenville, stated he was headed to Sulphur Springs from Commerce. During the traffic stop, the deputy detected a strong odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle.
Following a request to turn off the vehicle and stay seated, Massey was asked to exit the car. The deputy informed Massey of a probable cause search, to which Massey admitted to having marijuana in the vehicle.
Upon a thorough search, the deputy discovered multiple clear baggies containing a green leafy substance believed to be marijuana, a digital scale commonly used to weigh and distribute Marijuan, a significant amount of U.S. currency, and a black handgun under the driver's seat.
Massey was placed under arrest and read his Miranda rights. Additional deputies, Corporal Wilkerson and Deputy Holcomb, arrived to assist in the investigation. The evidence, including 4.1 ounces of marijuana, approximately $9,850 in U.S. currency, and a Taurus G2 handgun, was secured in the patrol unit.
During questioning, Massey revealed he believed he had around $7,000 in U.S. currency and usually bought 4 ounces of marijuana at a time. He disclaimed ownership of the handgun, stating it was not his.
Massey was transported to the Hopkins County Sheriff's Office, booked on charges including Possession of Marijuana, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, and Money Laundering in amounts exceeding $2,500 but less than $30,000.
The vehicle was taken into possession by authorities, and Massey's two cell phones were also seized. The evidence was processed, photographed, sealed, and stored in the evidence room as per procedure.
