On December 1st, 2024, a traffic stop initiated by Officer Blankenship resulted in the discovery of illegal substances and a firearm.
At approximately 6:00 PM, Officer Blankenship was patrolling near the 500 Block of E 2nd Street when he observed a Toyota vehicle parked on N McArthur Street in front of a residence known for narcotic activity. After following the vehicle, Blankenship observed the driver make an illegal turn and stop past the solid white line at the intersection of N Bridge and E Main Street. This led to a traffic stop at the Valero gas station at 61 N Bridge Street.
Upon stopping the vehicle, Blankenship made contact with four occupants inside, including the driver, Hope Martin, and a rear passenger later identified as Toban Byrd. While speaking with the individuals, Blankenship noticed a clear baggie containing white residue in the middle console and observed Byrd acting suspiciously by reaching into his waistband.
Officer Christopher Althouse arrived to assist and observed a burnt glass pipe in Byrd’s pocket, commonly associated with smoking illegal narcotics. Based on this and his training, Althouse proceeded to search Byrd, finding a small plastic container with a white rock-like substance in his pocket. Byrd was then placed in the rear of a patrol car.
Further investigation of the vehicle revealed a loaded Palmetto State Armory Dagger 9mm handgun under the driver’s seat, along with a gold digital scale and additional drug-related items. A check of the firearm’s serial number revealed no record of it being stolen. Byrd denied ownership of the gun, claiming it belonged to a passenger who was in the vehicle before him. He also stated that the burnt pipe found in his hoodie pocket was a THC vape pen.
The evidence, including the firearm, suspected methamphetamine, and other paraphernalia, was secured and transported to the Chillicothe Police Department. Photographs were taken, and all evidence was placed in evidence lockers for further analysis.
Pending lab results, additional charges may be filed, including Possession of Drugs and Weapons Under Disability.
