NEWHALL, WV (LOOTPRESS) — A traffic stop at the Newhall Country Corner Store on Thursday led to the arrest of a McDowell County man on multiple charges, including drug trafficking and driving on a revoked license.
Around 5:21 p.m., a McDowell County Sheriff’s Sergeant observed the man operating a green Yamaha Big Bear ATV in the store’s parking lot. The Sergeant recognized the individual and was aware his license had been revoked for DUI since 2003. Knowing the suspect lived on Tunnell Hill Road—a location only accessible via public roads—the Sergeant approached to investigate.
The man initially claimed another individual, Jerry Tester, had driven the ATV, but Tester, who was also present, denied it. The suspect then admitted he had driven to the store “for bread and pop” because his hip was hurting.
Upon confirming the revoked license status through dispatch, the Sergeant attempted to arrest the man. During a pat-down, the suspect pulled away and tried to flee on foot. He was quickly subdued and taken into custody.
During a search of the suspect, deputies discovered a Reese’s candy bag that contained a plastic bag of suspected methamphetamine. Based on the Sergeant’s training and experience, the amount recovered was consistent with drug trafficking. The ATV was also identified as being used in the sale of illegal drugs.
After being read his Miranda rights at the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office, the suspect admitted to driving on State Route 16 with a revoked license and confessed to selling methamphetamine to cover household bills and gas expenses.
The man is facing multiple charges, including driving on a revoked license for DUI, fleeing from law enforcement, possession with intent to deliver a Schedule II controlled substance, and maintaining a vehicle for drug distribution.
Authorities noted the suspect has a prior felony drug arrest.
