LEXINGTON, S.C. (WIS) — A routine traffic stop on Interstate 26 led Lexington County deputies to uncover a major drug and weapons case, resulting in the arrest of two individuals.
According to Sheriff Jay Koon, a deputy pulled over a vehicle with an expired license plate last week. Upon approaching the vehicle, the deputy detected a strong odor of marijuana. After backup arrived, a search of the vehicle was conducted.
Inside the vehicle, deputies discovered multiple illegal substances, including fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, and Alprazolam pills. A loaded pistol was also found beneath the driver’s seat.
Aaron Daryl Maldonado, 31, was arrested and faces multiple charges including:
Trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine
Possession of cocaine and marijuana
Possession of Alprazolam
Three weapons charges
Committing a violent crime while out on bond for another violent offense
Shailie Marie Mercado, 24, was also arrested and charged with meth possession.
Both suspects were transported to the Lexington County Detention Center. While Maldonado remains in custody, Mercado has since been released on bond.
Authorities credit the deputy’s alertness with preventing dangerous drugs and weapons from circulating further in the community.
