Two people from Poplar Bluff were arrested in Howell County after a Missouri State Highway Patrol traffic stop led to the discovery of methamphetamine and a large amount of suspected stolen merchandise, according to probable cause statements filed February 19.
Troopers stopped a blue Toyota Prius on State Route 17 after it crossed the centerline and came to rest partially in the roadway. In the first report, the trooper wrote that the driver, identified as Ashley Lynn Thomas Henry, appeared “very fidgety” and gave conflicting explanations about her travel plans . A records check revealed she had an active warrant, and she was taken into custody.
In the second filing, the passenger initially refused to identify himself. A wallet found during an inventory search contained a non‑driver ID card, allowing the trooper to confirm the passenger was Dante Jesus Mendoza . Troop G dispatch later confirmed Mendoza also had an active warrant.
Because the vehicle was stopped in the roadway, troopers requested a tow and conducted an inventory search. Inside the car, they reported finding a Mickey Mouse jar and a purse, each containing “a white crystal-like substance,” which later tested positive for methamphetamine . Troopers also located “multiple bags, purses, shoes, wallets, clothing and other merchandise that still had store tags on them,” along with clothing tagging devices . The origin of the merchandise remains under investigation.
Thomas Henry faces charges including felony possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, failing to drive on the right half of the roadway, unlawful use of an electronic communication device while driving, and improper display or maintenance of vehicle plates .
Mendoza is charged with felony possession of a controlled substance and misdemeanor unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia . Both were transported to the Howell County Jail on 24‑hour holds pending formal charges.
