JPD: Suspect tried to swallow evidence | Crime

Jonesboro police say a parolee stopped on a traffic violation tried to swallow a bag containing meth to avoid going to jail.

Stephen P. Hanna, 53, of Jonesboro was arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and tampering with evidence.  He was also charged with driving with a suspended license.

While searching his car the arresting officers reported finding a plastic shopping bag “containing several aluminum foil boats with burn residue in them.”

When the officers asked Hanna about the discovery, they say he began chewing on a plastic baggie in his mouth.

One of the officers “grabbed him by the throat muscles to prevent him from swallowing” then forced Hanna’s mouth open and he reportedly “spit out what was left of the plastic baggie…it contained methamphetamine residue.”

Hanna was taken to St. Bernards Regional Medical Center for observation then transported to the Craighead County Detention Center. 

Photo provided by Craighead County Sheriff's Office.