A routine traffic stop near Ajax turned serious after deputies discovered suspected drugs inside a vehicle.
According to local authorities, a man from St. Amant was arrested on felony drug charges following the stop on Interstate 49. Officials say the case highlights how simple traffic violations can sometimes lead to bigger criminal investigations.
Speeding Stop on Interstate 49
Stuart Wright, Sheriff of the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office (NPSO), shared details about the arrest.
On February 17 at around 1:56 pm, a deputy working a special detail was patrolling Interstate 49 near Ajax. During the patrol, the deputy recorded a 2012 Honda Civic travelling at 87 miles per hour in a 75 mph speed zone.
The deputy conducted a traffic stop based on the speeding violation.
Strong Odour Leads to Search
While speaking with the driver, identified as Charles St. Martin, 41, of St. Amant, the deputy reportedly noticed a strong smell of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle.
Authorities also stated that suspected narcotics were visible in plain sight. Based on these observations, the deputy carried out a probable cause search of both the vehicle and the driver.
Drugs Seized During Search
During the search, deputies reportedly found and seized the following suspected narcotics:
- Around 3 grams of suspected methamphetamine
- Around 10 grams of suspected marijuana
- Around 1 gram of suspected THC wax
Officials confirmed that all seized substances will be sent to a crime lab for proper testing and analysis.
Arrest and Charges Filed
Charles St. Martin was arrested at the scene without any reported incident. He was later transported to the LaSalle Corrections/Natchitoches Detention Center for booking.
According to authorities, he faces the following charges:
- Possession of CDS Schedule II – Methamphetamine
- Possession of CDS Schedule I – Marijuana
- Speeding (87 mph in a 75 mph zone)
Deputy S. Dieter made the arrest. The vehicle involved was towed from the scene by a local towing company.
Investigation Process Continues
Law enforcement officials stated that the investigation is ongoing. The seized substances will undergo narcotics testing to confirm their composition. Further legal proceedings will depend on the results of the crime lab analysis.
Authorities continue to remind drivers that routine traffic enforcement plays an important role in maintaining road safety and preventing illegal activities.
