GORDONSVILLE, Tenn. (October 18, 2025) — A routine traffic stop on Interstate 40 in Smith County resulted in the discovery of more than 13 ounces of suspected marijuana and the seizure of nearly $3,800 in cash, according to a report from the Gordonsville Police Department.
At approximately 8:19 p.m., Officer Kyle Reynolds was traveling to assist Deputy Harry Brooks when a black 2020 Nissan Sentra abruptly turned in front of his patrol vehicle from a non-turning lane near the I-40 westbound 258 on-ramp. Reynolds initiated a traffic stop and made contact with the driver, identified as Paul Daniel Bostic III, and a passenger.
Officer Reynolds reported detecting a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. When questioned, the passenger allegedly admitted there was marijuana in the car and produced two dispensary-style bags containing a green leafy substance. The passenger also handed over a plastic bag containing approximately 23.4 grams of marijuana, which he said belonged to Bostic.
During a subsequent search of the vehicle, Sgt. Robbie Woodard arrived to assist. Officers reportedly discovered multiple large mason jars filled with a green leafy substance in the trunk. The combined weight of the suspected marijuana from the jars and baggies totaled approximately 13 ounces, that along with the dispensary bags put the total amount of marijuana seized at just under 14 ounces.
A ledger was also found in the trunk, which investigators said listed marijuana strains, weights, and apparent transaction tallies. Bostic reportedly told officers the jars might belong to his father but denied knowing they were in the vehicle.
Dispatch confirmed that Bostic’s driver’s license was revoked. Officers allowed the passenger to take possession of the vehicle to avoid towing, though he was instructed to wait with it until a licensed driver could pick it up, as he also did not have a valid license.
Bostic was taken into custody and transported to the Smith County Correctional Facility without incident. During booking, officers found $3,802 in U.S. currency in Bostic’s wallet. Due to the quantity of marijuana, its packaging, and the presence of a ledger indicating prior transactions, police said they believe Bostic was involved in the sale and distribution of marijuana.
The cash was seized as part of a forfeiture proceeding. The Nissan Sentra was not seized because it had an active lien, according to the report.
All seized substances were packaged and sent to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation for laboratory analysis and classification.
The incident occurred within Gordonsville city limits in Smith County, Tennessee.
The charges and allegations referenced in this report are merely accusations of criminal conduct and not evidence. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and convicted through due process of law.
