Traffic Stop Leads to DUI and Drug Arrest On Broadway in Missoula
Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On November 20th, 2024, a Missoula County Sheriff's Office Sergeant was traveling westbound on Palmer St. when he observed a Nissan truck traveling eastbound. He noted the truck was traveling with its bright beams activated and the driver failed to dim his headlights when he approached the sergeant. The sergeant noted that one of the bright headlights was not functioning.
He conducted a traffic stop and found the truck was occupied by one male, who was later identified as 57-year-old Wiley Smith. Smith did not come to an immediate stop. Instead, he continued more than half a block on Palmer St. before turning onto Broadway, where he eventually stopped.
Smith did not place his truck in park. Instead, he had his feet on the brake and had his arms raised. The sergeant had previously asked Smith to park the truck, but Smith did not. The Sergeant walked to the passenger side of the truck and asked Smith to shut the truck off, but Smith had a difficult time and did not comply.
The sergeant smelled the odor of alcohol coming from the truck and observed open containers on the floorboard. The sergeant asked Smith for his license, registration, and proof of insurance. Smith provided a Texas ID card but said his license was suspended. Smith said he did not have insurance and that the truck was registered to someone else. The sergeant also noted that Smith was slurring his words during this time.
A deputy responded to the scene to process Smith for DUI. The deputy asked if he could pat Smith down for weapons, and Smith consented. The deputy felt an object in Smith's pocket that felt consistent with a folding knife, and Smith confirmed it was a knife. The deputy retrieved the item and in doing so found it to be a lighter and while removing it, a small plastic bag containing a white powdery substance came out with it. The substance was later tested and returned positive for methamphetamine.
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The deputy instructed Smith on the HGN test and observed 4 out of 6 indicators of impairment. Smith was then provided directions for the walk and turn test. However, he began arguing about the instructions and then refused to cooperate or participate in any other tests.
Smith was placed under arrest and transported to the Missoula County Detention Center. He's currently being charged with felony criminal possession of dangerous drugs and DUI first offense.
The information in this article was obtained from sources that are publicly viewable.