Jacksonville man charged after traffic stop uncovered methamphetamine and a stolen handgun, records show
What police say they found
A Jacksonville man is facing multiple criminal charges after police reported finding methamphetamine and a handgun later identified as stolen during a traffic stop that escalated into a short foot chase, court records show.
The case centers on a December 6, 2023 incident in which Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office detectives said they were conducting surveillance tied to an unrelated investigation near Broadway Street and Garfield Street. Investigators reported seeing two men leave a residence and drive away in separate vehicles. Detectives followed the vehicle driven by the man who is now charged, and reported observing multiple traffic violations before attempting a stop.
Police said the driver did not stop and instead led officers on a high-speed chase through multiple streets. Court records describe the vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed, weaving through traffic, and running a red light before crashing into a ditch. Officers reported the driver fled on foot and was apprehended a short distance away.
Drugs, ammunition, and a firearm listed in court filings
After the crash, detectives said they searched the vehicle and recovered a loaded Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield Plus handgun and additional ammunition. Court records also describe a black latex glove containing loose 9mm rounds and a loaded extended magazine found inside the car.
Investigators reported locating several bags of suspected narcotics in the vehicle’s center console. The substances listed in court records include:
- approximately 10.5 grams of methamphetamine described as high purity
- approximately 4.3 grams of fentanyl
- approximately 2.1 grams of cocaine base
Records state that investigators later determined the handgun had been reported stolen in Jacksonville in 2022.
How the case is being prosecuted
The charges outlined in court records focus on alleged drug possession with intent to distribute, along with firearm-related allegations stemming from the reported recovery of the stolen handgun and ammunition. The case includes both narcotics and weapons evidence, which prosecutors typically use to argue that the drugs were not solely for personal use.
In criminal cases, court filings and charging documents summarize allegations; guilt must be proven in court, and defendants retain the presumption of innocence unless convicted.
What comes next
The case is expected to proceed through standard pretrial steps, including hearings related to evidence handling and the legality of the traffic stop, chase, and vehicle search. Outcomes may include a trial or a negotiated plea, depending on motions, evidentiary rulings, and discussions between prosecutors and defense counsel.