Madison County Sheriff Ben Stewart reports that on Tuesday, Jan. 12 at approximately 1:43 p.m., Deputy Goldman, with the Madison County Sheriff’s Office Interstate Criminal Enforcement Unit conducted a traffic stop on a white Dodge Charger for speeding while traveling westbound on I-10. The driver was identified as Bruce Mathews, 58, of Kissimmee, Fl. and Deputy Goldman explained the reason for the stop. While taking enforcement action for the violation, Deputy Goldman engaged in conversation with Mathews and the passenger identified as Tito Young, 42, of Pahokee, Fl. Deputy Goldman observed criminal demeanor and behavioral conduct as well as several discrepancies with specific information provided by each occupant. The actions and information of the occupants created a reasonable belief that criminal activity is, had or was currently taking place.
Deputy Goldman requested assistance from Lieutenant Haskell and Mathews provided consent to search the vehicle. While conducting the search, Deputy Goldman discovered a variety of prescription pills located in the center console; neither Mathews nor Young would claim ownership of the pills. However, Mathews has an extensive criminal history to include with his involvement with prescription drugs. Both subjects were taken into custody and transported to the Madison County Jail without further incident.
The investigations totaled 625 Schedule II Pills (Oxycodone and Oxymorphones) and 204 Schedule IV Pills (Alprazolam).
The two are facing charges of traffic in controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance.
