Lake Charles, Louisiana – On March 7, at approximately 10:00 a.m., detectives from the Combined Anti-Drug Task Force (C.A.T. Team) Criminal Patrol Unit initiated a traffic stop on a sport utility vehicle (SUV) traveling eastbound on Interstate 10 near mile marker 41 between Iowa and Lake Charles. The stop was prompted by a traffic violation observed by the officers.
Upon making contact with the driver, identified as 53-year-old Devon A. Hubbard from Hephzibah, Georgia, detectives noticed several indicators suggesting potential criminal activity related to drug trafficking. In light of these observations, the officers requested permission to conduct a search of the SUV, which Hubbard consented to without hesitation.
During the search, detectives discovered an aftermarket hidden compartment located beneath the center console of the vehicle. Within this concealed space, they uncovered six compressed bricks of a substance suspected to be powder cocaine. The total weight of the narcotics was approximately 14.5 pounds, with an estimated street value exceeding $657,000. Additionally, Hubbard was allegedly found to be in possession of more than $2,400 in cash.
Following the discovery of the drugs and cash, Hubbard was arrested and subsequently booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center. He faces charges of possession of controlled dangerous substances (CDS II) with intent to distribute, along with transactions involving proceeds from controlled dangerous substances. After a brief period in custody, Hubbard was released on March 10 after posting a $175,000 bond set by Judge Hope Buford.
The Combined Anti-Drug Task Force is a collaborative initiative involving law enforcement officials from various local, state, and federal agencies. Its primary goal is to combat the trafficking of illegal substances in and around Calcasieu Parish.
An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.