FREDERICKSBURG, Texas — What began as a routine traffic stop in Gillespie County quickly led deputies to uncover a significant cache of illegal drugs, a handgun, and drug paraphernalia, resulting in felony charges for 18-year-old Logan Duecker.
Gillespie County Sheriff Chris Ayala reported that Duecker was stopped for speeding along South Highway 87 at Whispering Oaks Drive. Deputies noted a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle during the stop.
“Unfortunately, the narcotics out there this individual possessed are winding up in the hands of our younger folks,” Sheriff Ayala said. “So we’re trying to keep that from happening.”
A search of Duecker’s vehicle revealed approximately 38 grams of cocaine, 24 grams of THC, a quarter-pound of marijuana, a handgun, and a digital scale. With Duecker’s consent, deputies also searched his bedroom, where they found an additional 22 grams of methamphetamine.
The sheriff expressed concern about Duecker’s young age and the wider impact of drug activity in the community. “The age is heartbreaking because he’s only 18,” Ayala said. “I would prefer he go a different route. But unfortunately, the laws are in place. And we’re gonna act on our laws and we’re going to use them professionally and wisely.”
“Narcotics create dysfunction,” he added. “But it’s systemic. It starts at one point, it starts to spread out in different directions. So if we can break that root with where it comes from, then I think we can stop that systemic problem, and we can make some positive strides.”
Duecker was booked into Gillespie County Jail and is being held on a $130,000 bond.
“If they’re wanting to come to Gillespie County, I’m hoping they think twice. Or they just go elsewhere, personally,” Sheriff Ayala said.
