Michael David Candelaria 
Destiny Chris Hopper
A possible domestic disturbance call to the Gordonsville Police Department evolved into a couple being booked into the county jail where a strip search revealed a list of drugs and drug paraphernalia on December 12.
Gordonsville Police Officer Dustin Holder was dispatched to Shell (also known as Bush’s Market) on Gordonsville Highway in Gordonsville in response to a possible domestic disturbance. However, upon arrival, Officer Holder witnessed the suspects’ vehicle leave the Shell parking lot and precede onto I-40 westbound.
Smith County Deputy Matt White, along with Tennessee Highway Patrol Officer Meness, assisted Officer Holder with the traffic stop of the vehicle on I-40.
The driver of the vehicle, Michael Candelabra, and passenger, Destiny Hopper, were asked to exit their vehicle.
According to the police report, while being questioned, Candelabra was seen attempting to throw a used syringe that contained blood to the shoulder of I-40 in an attempt to destroy or hide evidence. He was placed under arrest.
A search of the vehicle uncovered a purse with an additional syringe. Hopper denied the syringe was hers, but had previously stated that cigarettes in the purse was owned by her. Hopper was placed under arrest also.
According to the police report, Smith County Jail Officer Tanya Kincaid conducted the booking process, which includes a strip search. During the search, Officer Kincaid discovered $130 in a plastic bag within Hopper’s vaginal cavity, along with other drugs and drug paraphernalia.
Hopper was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Mfg/Del/Sell of Schedule II, Possession of Methamphetamine, and Introduction of Contraband into Penal Institution. Candelaria was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving Without a License, and Tampering with Evidence. Hopper and Candelaria are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
