BEAVER, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A Beaver man is facing additional charges after officers allegedly discovered suspected fentanyl hidden inside his sock while he was being processed at Southern Regional Jail.
According to the West Virginia State Police, Troopers spotted a black Nissan Xterra near the Sheetz around 11:20 p.m. on May 18. The driver was identified as Michael L. Bailey, who officers said was known from previous law enforcement encounters.
Authorities conducted a records check and discovered Bailey’s driver’s license was suspended and that he also had an active capias warrant through Raleigh County Magistrate Court.
Deputy K. Lilly with the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office initiated a traffic stop on Little Vine Drive in Beaver, where Bailey was arrested on the outstanding warrant.
During the stop, a passenger reportedly informed officers there was drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle. Corporal M. Talley then deployed K9 Ajax, who alerted to the odor of narcotics.
A subsequent search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered burnt foil, a spoon, and a bundle of straws, all commonly associated with illegal drug use.
Bailey was transported to Southern Regional Jail for processing. Before entering the facility, Troopers asked Bailey if he possessed any illegal substances, which police say he denied.
However, an x-ray scan allegedly revealed an item hidden inside Bailey’s right sock near his toes. Correctional officers attempted to recover the item, but police said Bailey tried to conceal it with his foot.
The item was recovered and identified as a silver gum wrapper containing a white powdery substance believed to be fentanyl. According to Troopers, Bailey acknowledged the substance was fentanyl by nodding and verbally stating “fentanyl” when questioned.
Police said the suspected narcotics weighed approximately 0.52 grams and will be sent to the West Virginia State Police Crime Lab for analysis.
Bailey was additionally charged with aiding escape and other offenses following the discovery.
The incident occurred in Raleigh County.
