Meth Arrest Following Traffic Stop Attempt

A Hiddenite man is facing multiple charges after a late-night traffic stop escalated into a brief struggle with officers in Taylorsville.

On June 28, 2026, at approximately 9:45 p.m., an officer with the Taylorsville Police Department attempted to stop a vehicle after it was observed nearly colliding with another vehicle.

Authorities say the driver initially failed to stop despite emergency lights and siren being activated, continuing down the roadway before making a U-turn and attempting to travel in the opposite direction. A second officer was able to position a patrol vehicle to prevent the suspect from leaving the area.

Officials report the driver then refused multiple lawful commands to exit the vehicle, leading to a physical struggle with officers. A TASER was deployed during the incident in order to safely take the suspect into custody.

The driver was identified as 39-year-old Kenneth Baity of Hiddenite.

He was charged with:

• Felony Possession of Methamphetamine

• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

• Misdemeanor Flee to Elude Arrest with a Motor Vehicle

• Failure to Heed Lights and Siren

• Resisting a Public Officer

  
  

Baity was issued a $30,000 secured bond.

The Taylorsville Police Department thanked the Alexander County Sheriff’s Office for assistance during the incident.