HOPKINS COUNTY, TX – A traffic stop initiated in response to a suspected kidnapping call led to the arrest of an 18-year-old man on drug paraphernalia charges.
On Sunday evening, August 3, Hopkins County dispatch received a report of a possible kidnapping involving a white Buick sedan near Sulphur Springs. A deputy located a vehicle matching the description and conducted a traffic stop on Highway 11 East.
The vehicle's occupants included 18-year-old Hector Virgilio Espino and two juveniles. The reported victim did not wish to press charges for the alleged kidnapping. During the stop deputies noticed a strong odor of marijuana coming from the car.
A probable cause search of the vehicle uncovered a glass bong, marijuana residue, and vape pens. Deputies also reportedly found marijuana in Espino’s shorts pocket. Espino was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. The two juvenile passengers were released to their parents. Espino was booked into the Hopkins County Jail. No further information was provided as to why the victim called 911 about a "kidnapping".
