On Friday night, October 20, 2023 the Columbia Police Department initiated a traffic stop on Fairground Street (Liberty Road) just outside the city limits. 

Upon making contact with the operator, CPD Officers could detect the odor of marijuana coming from within the vehicle. After administering a field sobriety test, the driver was taken into custody for being under the influence. A search of the vehicle yielded findings of marijuana, paraphernalia, suspected narcotics, and a 9MM pistol.

 
James Hanson, 39, of Columbia, KY has been charged with No Registration Plates, Operating a Vehicle Under The Influence, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of a Controlled Substance (drug unspecified).

Officer Trent Williams made the arrest. He was assisted on scene by Sgt Evan Burton.