From The Bell County Sheriff's Department -
On Wednesday August 24, 2022, the Bell County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic safety checkpoint at the intersection of Highway 217 and 988. During the operation a 1999 White Dodge Caravan approached the checkpoint with 28-year-old Eric Dustin Robbins of Middlesboro driving.
Sgt. Frank Foster knew that Robbins had outstanding warrants for his arrest, and he was taken into custody. During a search of the vehicle, Sgt. Foster located a 22-caliber pistol on the driver’s side of the vehicle where Robbins had been seated. Also found in the vehicle was three shotguns, several rounds of ammunition, and a green leafy substance believed to be Marijuana.
It was confirmed through Bell County Dispatch that Robbins is a convicted felon.
Eric Robbins was lodged in the Bell County Detention Center charged with possession of a handgun by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of controlled substance - 1st degree, 1st offense (Methamphetamine), and possession of Marijuana.
He was served four warrants, one of which was for possession of handgun by convicted felon.
Also involved with the operation were K-9 Sgt. Adam Southern, Deputies Sampson Churchwell and Austin Poindexter, Chaplain Ricky Dorton, and KSP Trooper Josh Messer.