A routine traffic stop on Route 1 turned into a significant drug bust on the evening of Nov. 9, after Blaine County Sheriff's deputies uncovered a large stash of methamphetamine hidden inside a vehicle.
According to a release from the sheriff’s office, Deputy Martin Deluca initiated the traffic stop after observing a vehicle traveling at 90 miles per hour in a posted 60 miles per hour zone. Upon making contact with the driver, later identified as 33-year-old Jamelquy Molderry, the deputy encountered a confrontational and noncompliant individual. Despite repeated requests for documentation, Molderry initially refused to cooperate, leading to a tense interaction.
Once Molderry provided the necessary identification, he continued to act erratically and approached Deputy Nick Duffy, who had arrived as backup. Deputy Duffy ordered Molderry to step back multiple times, but the suspect grew increasingly aggressive, eventually pushing toward the deputy. At this point, a physical altercation ensued between Molderry and the deputies, resulting in his detention.
Following the incident, Molderry requested medical attention and a supervisor. An ambulance arrived on the scene and cleared him for transport, after which Sergeant Casey Andrews took statements from all parties involved.
As deputies began conducting an inventory search of the vehicle, they discovered several bicycles in the back of the car. Upon closer inspection, it became apparent that the serial numbers had been scratched off and painted over, raising suspicions of illegal activity. A canine unit was brought in, and the dog alerted to the tires of the bicycles. When deputies cut open the tires, they found approximately 70 grams of methamphetamine hidden inside.
The vehicle was subsequently towed for further examination, and Molderry was taken into custody and booked on multiple charges, including possession of narcotics with intent to distribute, assault on a law enforcement officer, and obstruction of justice.
The Blaine County Sheriff’s Office commended its deputies for their diligence and quick thinking, noting that this discovery helped prevent a potential drug distribution operation from taking place. The department emphasized its ongoing commitment to keeping narcotics off the streets and ensuring the safety of the community.
"This is an excellent example of how our deputies remain vigilant, even during routine traffic stops," said Sergeant Andrews. "Thanks to their hard work and attention to detail, we've taken a large quantity of drugs off the streets and prevented further harm to the public."
The investigation into Molderry's activities is ongoing, and additional charges may be forthcoming as law enforcement continues to probe the origins and intended distribution of the narcotics.
