Traffic stop in West Frankfort leads to methamphetamine arrests

WEST FRANKFORT, Ill., (KBSI) — A traffic stop in West Frankfort led to the arrest of three individuals on methamphetamine-related charges.

On March 13, officers from the West Frankfort Police Department conducted a traffic stop at approximately 11:30 p.m. Franklin County Sheriff’s Office K9 Vader was requested to respond to the scene for a free air sniff around the vehicle.

K9 Vader alerted positively on the vehicle, leading to a probable cause search that yielded methamphetamine, packaging material, and numerous items of drug paraphernalia.

Nicole D. Keen, 45, of Marion, was charged with possession of methamphetamine, unlawful delivery of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Randy L. Carter, 56, of Benton, was charged with possession of methamphetamine, unlawful delivery of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Dustin R. Eckles, 39, of Bluford, was charged with possession of methamphetamine and unlawful delivery of methamphetamine.

During the booking process, correctional officers discovered that Keen was concealing items within a body cavity. Medical personnel extracted the items, leading to additional charges of possession of a controlled substance and bringing/possessing contraband within a penal institution.

All defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.