Heroin trafficking charge for Harlan man after traffic stop

CAWOOD, Ky. (WTVQ) – Kentucky State Police say what started as a stop for a traffic violation ended with an arrest for trafficking heroin.

Troopers say 24-year-old Frank Robinette was pulled over just before 8:00 p.m. on Sunday after failing to use a traffic signal while turning onto KY 991.

Investigators say Robinette appeared nervous during the traffic stop, and admitted his driver’s license had been suspended.  He was also unable to come up with a valid registration receipt or an insurance card, according to police.  Officers say when they administered a field sobriety test, Robinette failed.  He was charged with DUI, but his evening wasn’t over yet.

In his 2012 GMC pickup truck, troopers say they found a small black magnetic key box in the driver’s seat door.  When they opened it, they found a clear plastic baggie containing a white powdery substance.  Police say Robinette admitted it was heroin.  They also reportedly found a digital scale, and over $700 dollars in cash in the truck.

Robinette was additionally charged with trafficking, possession, and multiple traffic violations.

He was taken to the Harlan County Detention Center.