Traffic Stop on I-40 Leads to Drug and Cash Seizure; Suspect Arrested

October 29, 2024
Moad Naaman Saleh Aljuhaim.

On September 16th, a routine traffic stop on Interstate 40 eastbound near mile marker 260 resulted in a significant drug and cash seizure early Friday morning, leading to the arrest of Moad Naaman Saleh Aljuhaim.

The incident began when Sgt. Junior Fields of the Smith County Sheriff’s Department received a dispatch report regarding a reckless driver traveling eastbound on I-40. The vehicle, described as a gray Ford F250 with a camper topper, was located near mile marker 260. Sgt. Fields observed the truck swerving between lanes before crossing into an adjacent lane, prompting a traffic stop.

Upon approaching the vehicle and interacting with the driver, identified as Aljuhaim, Sgt. Fields noted the driver’s delayed response to requests for his license, registration, and proof of insurance. Officers Candice Robertson and Kyle Reynolds of the Gordonsville Police Department arrived to assist.

During the exchange, Sgt. Fields asked Aljuhaim to step out of the vehicle and noticed that he had something in his mouth, which was later identified as khat, a stimulant-containing plant commonly used as a recreational drug. Aljuhaim initially claimed the substance in his mouth was Arabic food. A vehicle search uncovered approximately 3.7 ounces of khat, confirming the suspicion.

Further investigation of the vehicle revealed $50,000 in U.S. currency. The money, divided into $10,000 stacks and bound with rubber bands, was consistent with proceeds from illegal drug sales, according to authorities. Officers also discovered messages on Aljuhaim’s phone, with photos of large bags of khat and communications suggesting his involvement in drug transportation. Aljuhaim initially allowed officers to review some of his messages but later refused further access to his phone, which was seized pending a search warrant.

In addition to the drugs and cash, officers noted unusual conditions inside the camper topper, which featured darkened windows, a light source, and wet blankets, including children’s blankets. Officers also reported finding handprints on the inside of the windows, though no further explanation was given at the time.

Aljuhaim was taken into custody and transported to the Smith County Jail for processing. The seized cash and drugs were placed into evidence, and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is analyzing the substances. The $50,000 in cash was seized under Tennessee’s asset forfeiture laws.