Traffic stop leads to drug arrests in Columbus County

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Two people were arrested after a traffic stop near Tabor City to the discovery of more than 23 grams of crack cocaine, the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office said.

(Photo: Columbus Co. Sheriff’s Office)

According to a news release from the sheriff’s office, detectives conducted a traffic stop at approximately 1 p.m. on March 13 along Swamp Fox Highway. A search of the vehicle uncovered crack cocaine packaged for distribution, authorities said.

The driver, Demarkus Quantrel Alford, and the passenger, Santannah Lenell Grate, were taken into custody and charged with multiple drug-related offenses.

Alford faces charges of possession with intent to sell or deliver cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving with a revoked license, and failure to stop at a stop sign. He was given a $2,000 secured bond.

Grate was charged with possession with intent to sell or deliver cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and maintaining a vehicle for controlled substances. Her bond was set at $2,000 secured.