Elmore County, AL – A routine traffic stop turned into a drug trafficking arrest last week when the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office uncovered a significant stash of illegal substances.
A deputy noticed a vehicle with improper lights and a driver who made an illegal lane change, prompting the officer to initiate a stop. The situation escalated when the deputy detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from the car, and observed evidence of drugs in the vehicle’s center console.
“There was an odor of marijuana coming from the car,” Elmore County Sheriff Bill Franklin said. “There was evidence of drugs visible in the console area.”
Upon further investigation, the deputy removed both the driver and passenger from the vehicle. In the passenger side, officers found 197 pills believed to be ecstasy, along with white powder suspected to be cocaine. Marijuana was also discovered in the vehicle.
The passenger, Winifer Weston, 41, from Montgomery, was arrested and charged with trafficking methamphetamine, two counts of possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, illegal possession of prescription pills, and tampering with physical evidence. Weston was later released after posting a $1,539,000 bond.
The driver, John Fuller, 36, also from Montgomery, was arrested and charged with driving under the influence and possession of marijuana. He was also cited for improper lane change and improper lights. Fuller was released from jail the following day after posting bond.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the case, but have not provided further details at this time.
