On January 27, 2023, a routine traffic stop on U.S. 23 near the Ross County Line led to the discovery of illicit substances and subsequent arrests by Pickaway County Sheriff’s deputies.
The incident unfolded when law enforcement observed a tan four-door sedan traveling southbound at 70 mph in a 60 mph zone. Upon initiating a traffic stop, deputies made contact with the driver, who disclosed that he did not possess a valid Ohio driver’s license. However, his passenger was found to have a valid license.
During the course of the stop, deputies conducted a pat-down search of the driver and discovered a suspicious item in his pocket, which he voluntarily revealed to be marijuana. The driver was subsequently placed under arrest and escorted to the patrol car.
Another officer arrived at the scene to assist, and upon searching the vehicle, discovered a green L&M menthol pack of cigarettes containing a plastic bag with a rock-like substance, later confirmed to be methamphetamine. The driver, upon being read his Miranda rights, admitted ownership of the drugs, stating it was a quarter ounce of methamphetamine intended for personal use.
Further search of the vehicle led to the discovery of additional contraband, including half a joint of marijuana and a small white straw with residue. The rear passenger and the other individual in the vehicle were questioned and subsequently released, as no illicit items were found on their persons.
The driver requested to smoke a cigarette before being taken into custody, and one of the occupants provided him with a cigarette from the same pack where the methamphetamine was found.
Following the arrest, the driver was transported to the Pickaway County Jail, where Bill Scarberry of Chillicothe was arrested and charged was issued citations for speeding, driving without a valid license, and possession of methamphetamine. The confiscated items were logged into evidence, with the suspected methamphetamine weighing approximately 9 grams.
The incident concluded without further incident, and law enforcement cleared the scene following the arrest.
