Passing trooper’s car at 20 over results in marijuana arrest

TERRE HAUTE — A 44-year-old Los Angeles man was arrested on drug charges Friday morning after he passing an Indiana State Police trooper’s car going 20 mph over the speed limit on Interstate 70.

About 10 a.m., Brandon L. Thomas was reportedly eastbound, driving a 2017 Kia Soul at 75 mph in a 55-mph zone near the seven-mile marker, while passing an Indiana State Police trooper on the right.

After passing the trooper, Thomas continued to speed and change lanes without signaling, ISP officials said.

A traffic stop was initiated and during conversations with Thomas, the trooper noticed several indicators of possible criminal activity. A search of the vehicle yielded approximately two pounds of alleged marijuana inside a backpack.

Estimated street value is $6,000. Also found was a fake Social Security card.

Thomas was taken into custody and incarcerated in the Vigo County Jail on felony counts of dealing marijuana under 10 pounds and possession of a fraudulent government document.