Traffic Stop in Troutman Leads to Drug and Gun Charges

A routine traffic stop in Troutman resulted in the arrest of a New York man on multiple drug and firearm charges after officers allegedly discovered marijuana, cash, and a concealed handgun inside his vehicle.

According to the Troutman Police Department, officers conducted a traffic stop at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Monday, June 15, along Charlotte Highway near the Interstate 77 on-ramp for a registration violation.

As officers approached the vehicle, they reportedly observed movements indicating the driver was attempting to conceal an item. Officers also detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle.

A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the discovery of what police described as a significant amount of marijuana, scales, packaging materials commonly associated with narcotics distribution, more than $8,000 in cash, and a concealed firearm.

The driver was identified as 43-year-old Eddie Gibson of Hempstead, New York. During the investigation, officers determined Gibson was a convicted felon in the State of New York.

Gibson was arrested and charged with possession with intent to sell or distribute a controlled substance, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and carrying a concealed gun.

He was transported before a magistrate, who ordered that he be held without bond.

The investigation remains ongoing.