Traffic stop uncovers laundering scheme

SMITH COUNTY – A man wanted on a drug-related warrant was apprehended during a routine speeding stop in Smith County. Authorities also found evidence of a money laundering scheme, a firearm, and almost $30,000 in cash. On December 28, Smith County deputies pulled over a car on Highway 31 East and identified Tyler James Starling, the driver. Starling was wanted on an active warrant for possessing about ten pounds of marijuana that had allegedly been smuggled and left at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. After Starling was placed under arrest, deputies searched his car and found a handgun, a cellphone, and $29,528 in cash.

Starling claimed to be the owner of a trucking company when questioned by deputies about his employment. Later, authorities verified the company’s existence but discovered the LLC was dormant. Starling had no documented employment history, according to a search of the Texas Workforce Commission, and company mileage records showed that the company had driven about 1,000 miles since its founding in 2021. Starling’s possession of the money was not supported by the company’s records.

Following a search warrant on Starling’s cellphone, investigators claimed to have found images of large amounts of marijuana as well as text messages with several people discussing the purchase and sale of drugs. On January 3, Starling was arrested for allegedly laundering between $2,500 and $30,000. His bond was set at $500,000.