HOPKINSVILLE, KY – On June 21, 2025, at approximately 10:05 PM, Christian County Sheriff’s Deputies conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the area of North Main Street at 9th Street in Hopkinsville due to an unilluminated rear license plate and an obstructed plate frame.
Vernon D. Mathis
The driver, identified as Vernon Mathis, 46, of Hopkinsville, was unable to provide a valid driver’s license, which was later confirmed to be suspended. Mathis initially gave false identifying information, claiming his name was “Bernie Mathis” and providing an incorrect date of birth, before his true identity was verified through departmental resources. A check revealed two outstanding warrants for Mathis out of Christian County for Contempt of Court and Failure to Appear.
During the stop, Deputies observed a small silver container attached to the vehicle’s keychain, commonly used to store illegal narcotics. A consensual search of the vehicle uncovered a substance that tested presumptive positive for crystal methamphetamine using a drug test kit.
Mathis was arrested and charged with:
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Rear License Not Illuminated (KRS 186.170)
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License to Be in Possession (KRS 186.510)
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Operating on Suspended or Revoked License (KRS 186.620)
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Giving Officer False Identifying Information (KRS 523.110)
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Possession of Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, 2nd Offense (Methamphetamine) (KRS 218A.1415)
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Rim or Frame Obscuring Lettering or Decal on Plate (KRS 186.170)
Mathis was transported to the Christian County Jail.
