According to Chief Deputy Charley Melton, on July 16 during a traffic stop conducted in Pineville by Izard County Deputies, the Department's drug dog (Mendy) was deployed and approximately ½ pounds of Methamphetamine was seized along with $5,304 cash. As a result, the driver of the vehicle, Robert Carpenter, age 45 of Saffell, and the passenger, Amber Taylor, age 29 of Viola, were arrested and are facing charges in Izard County for Trafficking a Controlled Substance, To wit; Methamphetamine; more than 200 grams, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia with the purpose to analyze Methamphetamine. Carpenter is also facing a Habitual Offender enhancement.  Carpenter's bond was set at $50,000 (cash only) and Taylor's bond was set at $25,000 (cash or professional). Both are also on probation with Arkansas Community Corrections whom have a hold on them. 

Investigators with the 16th Judicial Drug Task force were called in for follow-up investigation. A search warrant was gained for the county of residence of Carpenter where more Methamphetamine and over $99,000 cash was seized. 

Photos of Carpenter and Taylor provided.