Two men arrested for drugs and guns after vehicle accident in Middlesboro

From the Bell County Sheriff's Department -

(Middlesboro, Ky.) At 5:30am Monday April 22, 2019 Bell County Dispatch received a call of an accident with injuries in the vicinity of Sears on Highway 25E.

Responding to the scene was Bell County Deputy Justin Patterson with assistance from Middlesboro Police Sgt. Josh Burchett and Officer Joel Quillen.

Once on scene the officers found a damaged 2007 gray Nissan with two occupants identified as 24 year old Jonathan Maples of Pleasureville Kentucky, and 35 year old Dustin Baker of Middlesboro.

During the course of the incident the officers determined there were no injuries in the accident, but an investigation revealed in the driver’s side floor board (2) firearms – pistols. In the back seat were (15) fifteen Suboxone strips in original packaging tied together. And in the trunk was found approximately (1) one pound of a crystal-like substance believed to be Methamphetamine. Also found in the vehicle were distribution baggies along with (2) two digital scales. Found on the driver, Maples, was $550.00 in cash.

Passenger Dustin Baker was found to be in possession of a pill bottle containing:

(7) seven round Morphine pills, (2) two .5mg Alprazolam pills, and (13) thirteen 2mg Alprazolam pills. He attempted to flee on foot evading arrest.

Both men were lodged in the Bell County Detention Center.

Jonathan Maples has been charged with trafficking in controlled substance - 1st degree, 1st offense - greater than 2 grams - Methamphetamine, possession of controlled substance - 2nd degree - drug unspecified, and 2 counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He is being held without bond.

Dustin Baker has been charged with trafficking in controlled substance - 1st degree, 1st offense greater than 2 grams - Methamphetamine, possession of controlled substance - 1st degree, 1st offense, possession of controlled substance - 2nd degree - drug unspecified, 2 counts of possession of controlled substance - 3rd degree - drug unspecified, 2 counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, fleeing or evading police - 2nd degree (on foot). He was also served three bench warrants - one for a parole violation, one for violation of home incarceration, and another for failure to appear in court. He is also being held without bond.