A routine traffic stop in North Charleston turned into a major drug and weapons case on Wednesday evening. Police say what started as a minor vehicle violation quickly led to the arrest of two individuals and the discovery of suspected fentanyl, a firearm, and pills. The incident highlights how everyday patrol checks can uncover serious criminal activity.
Traffic stop leads to major discovery
The incident happened in North Charleston near Ashley Phosphate Road. Officers from the North Charleston Police Department were on proactive patrol around 5:30 p.m. when they noticed a vehicle with a broken taillight.
Police said the vehicle changed lanes multiple times, appearing to avoid officers before eventually stopping on the Interstate 26 eastbound entrance ramp.
Suspicious behaviour raises concern
The driver, identified as Dustin Jones, admitted he knew about the broken taillight but had not fixed it. He and the passenger, Kirsten Weaver, told officers they had been at a nearby lodge and were heading out to get food.
While speaking with them, an officer noticed a folded piece of tin foil in the glove box. Police said this type of foil is often used in drug-related activities. Officers also reported a strong smell believed to be linked to narcotics inside the vehicle.
In addition, a box of ammunition was seen on the passenger-side floor, increasing suspicion.
K-9 search confirms presence of drugs
Jones refused to allow officers to search the vehicle. As a result, a K-9 unit from the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office was called to assist.
The police dog alerted officers to the presence of drugs near the passenger-side door, giving them legal grounds to conduct a search.
Drugs and weapon recovered
During the search, officers reportedly found:
- Around 4.16 grams of a substance that tested positive for fentanyl
- A pistol located inside a backpack
- Drug-related materials inside the vehicle
Fentanyl is considered highly dangerous and is often linked to serious overdose risks, making the discovery particularly concerning.
Additional pills found during jail intake
Further investigation continued even after the suspects were taken into custody. During the intake process at the detention centre, officers conducted a search of Kirsten Weaver.
Police said they found 19 blue pills hidden on her, believed to be diazepam, a Schedule IV drug.
Charges filed against both suspects
Both individuals are facing multiple serious charges.
Dustin Jones, 35, has been charged with:
- Possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute
- Trafficking fentanyl
- Possession of a weapon during a violent crime
- Possession of a weapon by a person convicted of a violent crime
- Felony possession of a firearm
Kirsten Weaver, 36, has been charged with:
- Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
- Trafficking fentanyl
- Possession of a weapon during a violent crime
- Furnishing contraband to a county jail
- Possession of Schedule IV drugs
Suspects booked into detention centre
Both suspects were taken into custody and booked at the Al Cannon Detention Center.
Authorities have not yet released further details about the case, and the investigation may still be ongoing.
