Sheriff Darren Campbell stated that on June 22nd – 2015, Lt. C.L. Stone of the Aggressive Criminal Enforcement Team observed a 2001 model Ford traveling east on Garner Bagnal Blvd. with an equipment violation.
Stone conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle on Monroe St. and while speaking with the driver, Robert J. McKinstry, 44, of Statesville, Stone noticed that he appeared to be very nervous. Stone then had McKinstry to sit in the front passenger seat of his vehicle while he checked the validity of his driver’s license.
During this time Stone noticed the odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from McKinstry’s breath. While questioning McKinstry about the possibility of there being illegal contraband inside his vehicle he admitted to having marijuana and an opened beer.
A search of the vehicle was then conducted and McKinstry was charged with possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.
A passenger, Nelson W. Oxendine, 39, of Statesville, was charged with consuming alcohol in the passenger area of a vehicle. Both suspects are convicted felons.