FAYETTEVILLE, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A routine traffic stop on U.S. Route 19 Sunday afternoon ended with three passengers in custody on felony and warrant charges, according to Fayette County Sheriff Jess McMullen.
Deputies pulled over a vehicle for a minor traffic violation on June 15.
While speaking with the occupants, officers discovered that two passengers were wanted on outstanding warrants issued in neighboring counties.
A search of a third passenger uncovered suspected fentanyl and methamphetamines, McMullen said.
Melinda D. Blankenship, 35, of Clarksburg was taken into custody and charged in Fayette County with felony possession with intent to deliver narcotics.
Jerry R. Whitlock, 62, of Leivasy was arrested on Greenbrier County warrants for hit‑and‑run causing injury, driving revoked, and failure to maintain control.
Mikel L. Morrison, 41, of Cowen was arrested on a Nicholas County capias warrant alleging fraud, conspiracy, and petit larceny.
The driver, who was not charged, received a warning for the initial traffic offense and was released at the scene.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that all defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.