By Jodi Marze

Picayune Item

The Picayune Police Department reported that on Nov. 30, at 8:08 p.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop at Herrin Drive and South Beech Street for improper equipment — no brake light, said Capt. Jeremy Magri, assistant to the police chief.

The officer then made contact with the driver, identified as Kenneth Stevens, 20-years-old, of 315 N. Monroe Avenue in Picayune, Magri said.

“The driver was unable to provide either a driver’s license or proof of insurance,” Magri said. “While the officer was speaking with Stevens, he could smell a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle, at which time he had Stevens exit the vehicle and the officer conducted a search.

“The search revealed a green leafy substance, believed to be marijuana, under the driver’s side floor mat.”

The officer arrested Stevens for possession of marijuana, then transported him to the Criminal Justice Center where he was booked and incarcerated on the drug charge. Additionally, he was issued citations for improper equipment, no tag light, no driver’s license and no proof of insurance, Magri said.