(WVLT/Peg Broadcasting News)
A routine traffic stop in Morgan County has shut down what authorities call a large drug smuggling operation. According to WVLT, officers with the Oliver Springs Police Department pulled over 52-year-old David Pope who is on parole with the Tennessee Department of Correction. During the stop Pope was found to be in possession of multiple narcotics and 30 cell phones. Pope told investigators he planned to take the items to the Morgan County Correctional Complex and throw them over the security fencing. Pope reportedly confessed to having coordinated multiple ‘throw-overs’ in the past. WVLT reports that during a search of Pope’s home, officials discovered a vacuum seal machine used for sealing contraband packages as well as 30 guns and two stolen motorcycles. One of the motorcycles was seen on video being used in previous ‘throw-overs’ at the Morgan County Correctional Complex. According to TDOC, Pope is cooperating with investigators and is on a $190,000 secure bond. He is also facing a Violation of Parole among other charges. If anyone has information in this case, they are asked to contact the TDOC tip line at 1-844-TDC-FIND (1-844-832-3463).