A routine traffic stop turned serious on Friday morning in North Charleston, when police arrested a convicted felon found with a handgun and a large amount of marijuana. The suspect, Ovalrald Demart Gadsden Jr., 25, is now facing multiple charges related to drugs and illegal firearm possession.
Traffic Stop Turns Into Arrest
North Charleston Police were patrolling the area of Deerwood Drive when they spotted a Jeep with suspended license plates. When officers tried to pull it over, the driver turned into a driveway and attempted to get out of the vehicle. Officers quickly detained him before he could flee.
What Police Discovered
As officers approached the vehicle, they immediately noticed a strong smell of marijuana. This gave them probable cause to search the car. During the search, they found:
About 103 grams of a green leafy substance, which tested positive as marijuana
A handgun hidden inside the glove compartment
Police then ran a background check and confirmed that Gadsden was a convicted felon, which means he is not legally allowed to possess any firearms.
Charges and Detention
Gadsden was arrested on the following charges:
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
Possession with intent to distribute marijuana
He was transported to the Al Cannon Detention Center, where he is currently being held.
A Reminder of the Law
In South Carolina, convicted felons are strictly prohibited from owning or carrying firearms. Being caught with one is a serious offence and can lead to extended prison time. Additionally, having over 100 grams of marijuana suggests the intent to sell or distribute, which carries heavier penalties compared to simple possession.
This case shows how a simple patrol and sharp observation by police can lead to the removal of illegal drugs and weapons from the streets. Ovalrald Demart Gadsden Jr. now faces serious legal consequences. The arrest not only highlights the importance of regular police patrols but also serves as a warning that violating gun and drug laws can result in swift action and jail time.
