Sumter County Traffic Stop Uncovers Nearly $5,000 in Drugs and Stolen Handgun
A routine traffic stop on South Harvin Street and Newberry Avenue in Sumter County, South Carolina has erupted into a major arrest after officers seized a significant quantity of illegal substances alongside a stolen handgun, officials confirm.
On Wednesday afternoon, April 29, 2026, a deputy from the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office initiated a traffic stop after spotting a vehicle with dark window tint, a violation noticeable at a glance. Upon approaching the car, deputies immediately detected the strong odor of marijuana emitting from inside.
This alarming discovery prompted a thorough probable cause search of the vehicle, where deputies uncovered several containers of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine, cocaine base, and heroin. In addition to the narcotics, officers recovered a handgun that was confirmed stolen.
Driver Arrested on Multiple Serious Charges
The driver, identified as Devonte Daquan Tyre Ford, was taken into custody without incident and faces a slew of serious felony charges. These include:
- Trafficking in methamphetamine or cocaine base, 200–400 grams, 2nd offense
- Trafficking in heroin, 4–14 grams, 2nd offense
- Possession of a controlled substance
- Felon in possession of a firearm
- Possession of a weapon during a violent crime
- Possession of a stolen handgun
The estimated street value of the seized drugs is nearly $5,000, according to official statements from the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office.
Public Safety Implications and Next Steps
This arrest highlights ongoing law enforcement efforts to curb drug trafficking and illegal firearms possession in communities nationwide. The recovered stolen handgun underscores the threat to public safety posed by unlawful weapons circulation.
Ford is currently held at the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center awaiting a bond hearing. Authorities emphasize that such successful stops cut down the flow of dangerous drugs and recovered weapons that could escalate violent crime.
As the case moves forward, additional information will be shared by law enforcement. This arrest sends a clear message that traffic violations often lead to uncovering larger criminal activity, affirming vigilance on roads is critical for community safety across states, including Alaska and the wider U.S.
