Suspect's Dog Carries Handbag Containing Meth In Traffic Stop

Tonia Maria Harbin (44) of Mammoth Cave.

Darren Doyle, story:
A dog is credited for helping law enforcement discover meth after it carried a purse belonging to its owner that contained  illegal drugs, according the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office.

According to the Sheriff's Office, a deputy observed a Toyota Solara pull out of a driveway onto KY HWY 259 and cross into oncoming traffic, before turning back into the correct lane of travel around 1:48PM on Tuesday. The deputy then reportedly conducted a traffic stop near the 3000 block of KY HWY 259N where the driver was identified as Tonia Maria Harbin (44) of Mammoth Cave.

The Sheriff's Office stated that Harbin immediately exited her vehicle and began walking towards the deputy's patrol vehicle. Harbin was instructed to stop, but she continued walking to the passenger door of her vehicle where the deputy observed Harbin reach inside twice, prompting the deputy to ask Harbin if there was anything illegal in her vehicle, which she stated there was, according to the Sheriff's Office.

Officials stated that a search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of suspected marijuana, drug paraphernalia with suspected methamphetamine residue, and a homemade magnetic drug hide, containing a bag of suspected methamphetamine.

While the deputy was speaking with Harbin, a small dog came out from under Harbin’s vehicle carrying a handbag. A search of the handbag resulted in the discovery of suspected methamphetamine and suspected marijuana, the Sheriff's Office stated. Harbin allegedly admitted to law enforcement that she threw the handbag under the vehicle.

Harbin was placed under arrest and charged with:

• Trafficking in Controlled Substance, 1st Degree/1st Offense (> or = 2 GMS methamphetamine)
• Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess
• Possession of Marijuana
• Careless Driving
• Tampering with Physical Evidence

Harbin was lodged in Hart County Jail.