Traffic Stop Leads to Meth Arrests in Iredell County

On Saturday, January 3, 2026, a routine traffic stop by the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office led to multiple arrests and the discovery of methamphetamine, according to Sheriff Darren Campbell.

An Iredell County deputy conducting patrol near Highway 64 and Woodbridge Road initiated a traffic stop. Deputy A. Leggett made contact with the driver, identified as Todd Lee Hefner, and determined that Hefner had an active order for arrest stemming from an original charge of felony possession of methamphetamine. The passenger, Kenneth Douglas Lawrence, was also found to have an outstanding warrant for misdemeanor larceny out of Catawba County.

As the investigation continued, Sergeant N. Hodges responded to assist with Canine Levi. During the stop, the canine gave a positive alert to the odor of narcotics inside the vehicle. Deputies then conducted a search and located approximately 3.61 grams of methamphetamine, packaged in separate baggies, on the passenger-side floorboard.

Both individuals were taken into custody and transported to the Iredell County Jail. Hefner was served with his outstanding order for arrest and issued a $15,000 secured bond.

Lawrence was taken before Magistrate Johnson, who found probable cause for charges of felony possession with intent to sell or deliver methamphetamine, felony possession of methamphetamine, and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia. Lawrence was issued a $50,000 secured bond for those charges. He was also served with his outstanding warrant and received an additional $5,000 secured bond related to that case.