A young man from Moncks Corner is now facing legal trouble after a routine traffic stop in North Charleston turned into something much more serious. Here’s what happened and what others can learn from it.
Traffic Stop Leads to Arrest
On September 1st, North Charleston Police pulled over a vehicle on Northwoods Boulevard for something as minor as a broken tag light. What seemed like a simple stop soon turned into a criminal investigation.
Inside the vehicle was 19-year-old Jvaariez Sumpter, who was a passenger at the time. During the stop, officers said they smelled marijuana coming from inside the car, which gave them legal grounds to search the vehicle.
What Police Found During the Search
According to the police report, the officers discovered:
Around 30 grams of marijuana
A handgun hidden under the passenger seat
After checking the weapon’s serial number, investigators found out that the gun had been reported stolen. Because of this, Sumpter was charged with possession of stolen goods. He was later released after posting a $2,000 bond, as per jail records.
Understanding the Charge: Possession of Stolen Goods
Possession of stolen goods means someone is found with property that has been reported stolen — even if they didn’t steal it themselves. In South Carolina, this is a criminal offense that can lead to fines, probation, or even jail time depending on the situation and past criminal history.
In Sumpter’s case, the police haven’t reported whether he admitted to knowing the gun was stolen or how it ended up in the vehicle. Still, being in possession of it was enough to land him in custody.
How Small Offenses Can Lead to Bigger Problems
This incident is a reminder that minor traffic issues, like a broken tag light, can lead to much bigger consequences when illegal items are found in the vehicle. Here are a few takeaways:
Always fix vehicle issues promptly – Even small things like light bulbs can attract police attention.
Know what’s in your car – Being unaware of illegal items like stolen weapons or drugs won’t necessarily protect you from charges.
Avoid being in risky environments – The people you’re with and what’s in their possession can affect you too, especially when you’re in the same car.
Legal Consequences and the Bigger Picture
Although Sumpter has been released on bond, the case is still ongoing. If found guilty, he could face penalties that may impact his future — especially at such a young age. This case serves as a cautionary tale for youth about the importance of making smart choices and staying out of legal trouble.
A simple traffic stop over a faulty tag light led to the arrest of a 19-year-old passenger in North Charleston for possessing a stolen gun and marijuana. While he’s currently out on bond, the incident shows how quickly things can escalate. It’s a strong reminder to stay alert, stay informed, and stay away from trouble — especially when it comes to what’s inside your vehicle.
