Cookeville, TN – A Friday morning traffic stop on Highway 111 led to 16 arrests and two children being placed into state custody, after deputies discovered overcrowded conditions, drugs, and cash inside a 15-passenger van.
According to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, the stop occurred around 10:58 a.m. on November 14, 2025, near Spring Creek Road after deputies reported a strong odor of marijuana coming from a white Ford Econoline van pulling an enclosed trailer. Deputies made contact with the driver, identified as Ruben Dario Escobar, who allegedly claimed there were only six passengers traveling from Michigan to Georgia for work.
Deputies say Escobar admitted there was marijuana inside the vehicle, prompting a probable-cause search. Inside, officers allegedly found approximately 4.2 pounds of marijuana and about $8,350 in cash.
When deputies opened the side door, they discovered 18 people inside the van, including two toddlers who were reportedly not secured in car seats. Deputies noted that the children had limited access to food and were seated in unsafe conditions with direct access to marijuana. The children were placed into DCS custody.
Three individuals — Ruben Dario Escobar, Isreal Morales-Lopez, and Cajuste Rosenel — were charged with felony possession of Schedule VI and child endangerment. Each received a $30,000 bond, with a court date set for Wednesday, November 19, 2025.
Thirteen additional passengers were charged with child endangerment, each receiving a $20,000 bond and the same court date.
Authorities said 15 of the 16 adults arrested were allegedly in the country illegally and will be transferred to ICE custody following their court proceedings.
Residents who witnessed the stop or experienced delays are encouraged to share what they saw.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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