On May 8, 2026, Cumberland County Sheriff’s Deputy Devyne Templeton observed a black 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt acting suspiciously near Mr. Zips Gas Station in Crossville, Tennessee. After running the registration and confirming it was reported stolen out of Owensboro, Kentucky, the deputy initiated a felony traffic stop on the I-40 Eastbound off-ramp at 329.

Both occupants—a male driver, Wesley Russell Smoot, 32, of Bedford, Virginia, and female passenger Chassity Mechelle Thomas, 37, of Auburn, Kentucky—complied with commands and were detained.

During interviews after being read their Miranda rights, Thomas admitted she had been in possession of the vehicle and knew it was stolen. She claimed the owner had “gifted” it to her while he was in jail, though Owensboro police later confirmed the vehicle was entered as stolen after Thomas refused to return it. Smoot stated he was getting a ride back to Virginia and admitted to having a revoked driver’s license. A small amount of marijuana was found in the driver’s door.

Smoot was charged with driving on a revoked/suspended license, and Thomas was charged with theft of property. Both were arrested on-view and transported for booking. The vehicle was recovered and towed by Young’s Towing; the two dogs inside were taken to the Cumberland County Animal Shelter.

The marijuana was photographed and destroyed, and the owner was notified.