Middlesboro man arrested at traffic stop after struggle with officers and drugs found

From WRIL -

Jerry Hurst - BCDC

On Friday October 29, 2021, Middlesboro officers observed a blue Dodge Van on northbound Highway 25E. The vehicle failed to signal turning onto Cumberland Avenue and a traffic stop was conducted.

Upon contact with the driver and passenger, identification from both was requested by Officer Ryan Collins. It was discovered that the passenger 33-year-old Jerry Hurst had a non-extradition warrant out of Tennessee for assault. It was explained to both parties that only a verbal warning would be given if nothing was found in the vehicle or in their possession.

The female driver stepped out of the vehicle and was checked by Officer Kinder while Hurst was checked by Officer Collins. Hurst stated he had nothing on his person and not to search him. He was asked if he had any weapons and became belligerent, not allowing Collins to frisk him. He stated he had a knife in his pocket and ignored the officer’s commands not to touch it. He then pulled it out, holding it above his head and then dropped it, kicking it under the vehicle. He was then told to sit down on the curb and not move, which he did.

K9 Officer Harvey Johnson and K9 Atlas were requested to the scene and did an open-air sweep of the vehicle. Atlas alerted on the passenger door where Hurst had been sitting. The vehicle was then searched, but nothing was found.

While still sitting on the ground, Officer Collins noticed something in the front waist band of Hurst's pants. He was told to stand up for a pat down and he continued to resist officers including yelling and causing a public disturbance. While officers attempted to restrain Hurst, he struck Sgt. Johnson in the face with is knee during the struggle.

Once cuffed and under arrest, a large black bag containing a crystal-like substance believed to be Methamphetamine was retrieved from Hurst’s waist band. The weight was approximately 12.5 ounces.

Jerry Hurst was lodged in the Bell County detention Center charged with trafficking controlled substance – 1st degree, 1st offense (greater than 2 grams – Methamphetamine), resisting arrest, assault 3rd degree – police officer, resisting arrest, and disorderly conduct – 2nd degree.

The driver was given a warning and was allowed to leave.