Two Texas men were arrested in Mississippi after deputies discovered drugs and a firearm during a safety checkpoint on April 30, 2026, according to authorities from the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department.
Texas Men Arrested After Drugs and Firearm Found at Pearl River County Safety Checkpoint
The Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department reported that deputies conducted a safety checkpoint on Highway 43 near Sycamore Road in Picayune, Mississippi. The checkpoint was set up to ensure public safety, but at approximately 11:51 p.m., deputies stopped a vehicle that was approaching the checkpoint.
Upon stopping the vehicle, deputies detected the odor of marijuana, which led to further investigation. After searching the vehicle, law enforcement officers discovered suspected controlled substances and a firearm inside.
The driver of the vehicle, 66-year-old Charlie Randall from Cedar Hill, Texas, and his passenger, 65-year-old Joseph Brooks from Dallas, were identified. Authorities recovered suspected marijuana, cocaine, and oxycodone, along with a .25-caliber handgun.
Both Men Are Convicted Felons
A criminal history check revealed that both Randall and Brooks are convicted felons, which further compounded the charges against them. According to deputies, both men were charged with two felony counts of possession of a controlled substance while in possession of a firearm and possession of a weapon by a convicted felon.
Following their arrest, Randall and Brooks were taken to the Lenoir Rowell Criminal Justice Center for booking.
Ongoing Investigation and Request for Information
The Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department is continuing the investigation into the incident. Authorities have encouraged anyone with information about illegal activity to contact them at 601-403-2582.
This case underscores the ongoing efforts by local law enforcement to keep communities safe and prevent the illegal distribution of controlled substances and firearms.
