Two men from Texas were arrested in Pearl River County after deputies reportedly discovered suspected drugs and a firearm during a safety checkpoint operation late Thursday night. Authorities said the arrests happened during a traffic stop along Highway 43 on April 30.
According to the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were conducting a safety checkpoint at approximately 11:51 p.m. when they stopped a vehicle that allegedly had a strong smell of marijuana coming from inside.
Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Investigation
Deputies identified the passengers in the vehicle as 66-year-old Charlie Randall of Cedar Hill, Texas, and 65-year-old Joseph Brooks of Dallas, Texas.
Authorities said the odor coming from the vehicle led deputies to further investigate the situation. During the stop, law enforcement officers reportedly discovered several suspected illegal substances along with a handgun inside the vehicle.
Investigators stated that deputies recovered marijuana, cocaine, oxycodone, and a .25-caliber handgun during the search.
Serious Felony Charges Filed
Following the discovery, both Randall and Brooks were arrested and charged with multiple felony offenses. According to authorities, the men each face two felony counts of possession of a controlled substance while in possession of a firearm.
They were also charged with possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, which is considered a serious criminal offense under state and federal law.
Law enforcement officials often treat cases involving both illegal drugs and firearms as high-priority investigations because of the potential threat to public safety.
Deputies Continue Highway Enforcement Efforts
Safety checkpoints and traffic enforcement operations are commonly used by law enforcement agencies to monitor road safety, check for violations, and investigate suspicious activity.
Authorities said the checkpoint on Highway 43 was part of ongoing efforts to improve public safety and reduce illegal activity within Pearl River County.
Drug-related arrests connected to traffic stops are not uncommon during checkpoint operations, especially when deputies observe signs of possible criminal activity such as the odor of illegal substances.
Suspects Taken to Criminal Justice Center
After their arrests, Randall and Brooks were transported to the Lenoir Rowell Criminal Justice Center for booking.
Officials have not released additional details regarding court appearances or bond information at this time. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not announced whether additional charges could be filed.
Cases involving firearms and controlled substances often involve further review by investigators and prosecutors before moving through the court system.
Growing Focus on Drug and Firearm Crimes
Law enforcement agencies across the country continue working to address crimes involving illegal drugs and weapons. Authorities say the combination of narcotics and firearms can increase risks for violence and public safety concerns.
Officials regularly encourage drivers and residents to follow state laws regarding firearms and controlled substances while also cooperating with law enforcement during traffic stops and checkpoint operations.
Drug investigations tied to highway stops often play a role in broader efforts to reduce trafficking and illegal possession of narcotics in local communities.
