'QUITE A HAUL'

Jasper Police Make Largest Drug Seizure In County History

A routine traffic stop Monday night by Jasper police turned into the
largest drug seizure in county history.

Jasper police seized 10 kilos or 25 pounds of cocaine with an estimated
street value of between $1.5 and $2 million, Chief Bobby Cain said Tuesday.

Mark Anthony Askew, 29, of Memphis and Darice Farmer, 29, of Memphis were
arrested and each charged with trafficking in cocaine.

Police also seized a 2000 Mercedes the suspects were driving, along with
$1,500 in cash and a loaded handgun.

"This is by far the largest drug seizure we've ever had," Cain said.

Jasper canine officer Boo Woodard was on patrol when he spotted the
suspects' vehicle traveling west on U.S. 78. A routine stop led Woodard to
discover the cocaine in a box inside the vehicle's trunk. Both suspects
were arrested without incident.

Agents with the Walker County Narcotics Enforcement Team assisted Woodard.

District Attorney Charles Baker said warrants would be issued and bail set
today.

"We will be seeking a high bond on both suspects," Baker said. "We'll also
probably file suit in the next 48 hours to condemn the money, condemn the
firearm and condemn the Mercedes. Our contention will be that they were
each used to transport illegal drugs."

Baker said the case would go before the next scheduled grand jury, possibly
today. He also pledged to "aggressively prosecute" the suspects.

"This arrest is especially good because 25 pounds of cocaine, after it's
cut, will probably turn into 150 to 200 pounds of cocaine," Baker said.
"This seizure may very well have saved lives, or at least tragedy and
heartache for many people in Memphis.

"I'm tickled to death about this," Cain said. "Officer Woodard did an
outstanding job in this arrest."

The suspects were reportedly driving through Jasper on their way to Memphis
from Atlanta, Cain said.

"I'm very pleased with what Officer Woodard did," Mayor Don Goetz said.
"Chief Cain and his officers are working hard and doing a great job in
fighting the drug trade in the city. Officer Woodard's alertness and
dedication to duty and getting drugs off the street is commendable. This is
his second major traffic stop in two weeks, and it shows his concern about
the welfare of the citizens of Jasper."

Two weeks ago Woodard make a similar traffic stop that resulted in the
seizure of more than 80 grams of methamphetamine, 30 bottles of illegal
pills and more than $4,700 in cash.

Both suspects remain in the Walker County Jail today.