UPSHUR COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A Rock Cave man is facing multiple drug-related charges following a traffic stop in Upshur County that led to the seizure of a large quantity of suspected methamphetamine, firearms and other evidence.
According to a press release from the Upshur County Sheriff’s Department, the incident occurred on Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, when Sgt. Gordon initiated a traffic stop on a white Ford pickup truck traveling on Route 20 South Road in Rock Cave for traffic infractions.
Deputies identified the driver as Larry W. Powers, 67, of Rock Cave. Sgt. Gordon reported smelling the odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle and observing a bag containing suspected methamphetamine next to Powers’ leg.
A probable cause search of the truck resulted in the discovery of approximately two ounces, or 58 grams, of suspected methamphetamine, valued at more than $5,000.
Further investigation indicated Powers had allegedly been transporting large quantities of methamphetamine into Upshur County over the past year.
Authorities later executed a search warrant at Powers’ residence, where two firearms, several digital scales and a small amount of methamphetamine were found.
Deputies also seized Powers’ Ford F-250, which investigators say was used to transport and distribute methamphetamine in the county.
Powers is currently being held at the Tygart Valley Regional Jail on a $75,000 cash-only bond. As with all criminal cases, the charges are allegations, and Powers is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
