Around $25,000 worth of marijuana was taken off the streetsWednesday morning following a traffic stop by a Lincoln CountySheriff’s deputy.

Around $25,000 worth of marijuana was taken off the streetsWednesday morning following a traffic stop by a Lincoln CountySheriff’s deputy.

After pulling over a rental vehicle on Interstate 55 around 2a.m., Deputy Chris Picou and his narcotics canine, Bell, discovereda large brick of marijuana in the trunk of a 2000 Buick.

Picou said the driver, Eddie L. Thompson, 25, of Jackson, actednervous when questioned about his destination.

“He told me he was coming back from New Orleans and heading backto Jackson, but on the back seat I saw a map of Houston,” saidPicou, adding that his suspicions were heightened then becauseHouston is considered a drug source area.

Thompson showed signs of nervousness, like squirming and notmaking eye contact. However, he did reluctantly give consent tosearch the vehicle, at which time the marijuana was spotted, Picousaid.

Thompson was arrested and charged with possession of marijuanaand careless driving. He is being held in the Lincoln County jailon a $100,000 bond.

Lincoln County authorities are thankful for the bust becausethey believe the marijuana could have filtered through thisarea.

“This particular dope was going to Jackson, so there’s a goodchance some of it would have hit the streets in Lincoln Countybecause that’s where our dealers usually go to buy their dope,”said Picou.

Sheriff Lynn Boyte was also glad for the large amount ofmarijuana that was confiscated. He was grateful for the actions ofDeputy Picou.

“We are very fortunate to have him. He has a talent in doing hisjob that few people have,” said Boyte.