HCSO traffic stop leads to drug-related arrest

Highland County Sheriff Donnie Barrera reports that at approximately 7:57 p.m. Friday, May 15 a sheriff's deputy observed a 2001 silver Chevrolet Cavalier traveling at a speed greater than the posted speed limit on S.R. 72 in Fairfield Township. The deputy thereupon initiated a traffic stop on S.R. 28, just off SR 72.

Sheriff Barrera advises that during the traffic stop, the deputy became suspicious that there may be illegal narcotics inside the vehicle, and asked the driver for permission to search the car. The driver refused.

According to Sheriff Barrera, the Sheriff's K-9 unit was called to assist, and that unit indicated the presence of a narcotic odor in the vehicle.

The driver reportedly then admitted to having a "crack" pipe in the car. A search of the car revealed approximately over seven grams of what is suspected to be "crack" cocaine and approximately over 30 grams of what is suspected to be heroin hidden in the vehicle.

Sheriff Barrera states that the suspected narcotics, cash and the vehicle were seized.

The driver, Robert W. Sions, 58, of the Rocky Fork Lake area, has been charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of drugs. The suspected narcotics are being sent to the crime lab for testing.

After completing the traffic stop, Highland County Sheriff's detectives obtained a search warrant for the suspect's residence, according to Sheriff Barrera. A search of the residence revealed additional paraphernalia and other items used in the preparation for sale.

Evidence is being submitted to the crime lab. Additional charges may be forthcoming, and the matter is still under investigation.