Eure, NC – A routine traffic stop in Gates County escalated into a drug-related arrest on Tuesday night after deputies discovered controlled substances and drug paraphernalia inside a speeding vehicle, according to the Gates County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities say the incident highlights how standard traffic enforcement can uncover more serious criminal activity, particularly on heavily traveled roadways.
Speeding Stop Initiates Investigation on US 13
Deputies with the Gates County Sheriff’s Office were conducting speed enforcement operations along US 13 in Eure when they observed a vehicle traveling at a dangerously high rate of speed.
According to officials, the vehicle was clocked at 79 miles per hour in a 55 mph speed zone, prompting deputies to initiate a traffic stop. The stop occurred during nighttime hours, when visibility and reaction times are reduced, increasing the risks associated with speeding.
Probable Cause Leads to Vehicle Search
During the course of the stop, deputies said they developed probable cause to conduct a search of the vehicle. Law enforcement did not specify what indicators led to the search but noted that deputies followed proper procedures consistent with department policy and state law.
The subsequent search revealed the presence of Schedule I and Schedule VI controlled substances, along with drug paraphernalia, officials confirmed. Schedule I substances are classified as having a high potential for abuse with no accepted medical use, while Schedule VI substances typically include certain marijuana-related offenses under North Carolina law.
Suspect Identified and Taken Into Custody
Following the discovery, deputies arrested John Cornejo, whose age was not immediately released by authorities. Cornejo was taken into custody at the scene without further incident, according to the sheriff’s office.
Officials say the arrest was directly tied to the evidence recovered during the traffic stop, which elevated the situation from a speeding violation to a serious criminal case involving narcotics.
Multiple Charges Filed
John Cornejo now faces several charges as a result of the stop and investigation, including:
- Possession of Schedule I controlled substance
- PWIMSD (Possession With Intent to Manufacture, Sell, or Deliver) Schedule I
- Simple possession of Schedule VI controlled substance
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Speeding (79 mph in a 55 mph zone)
Authorities emphasized that the PWIMSD charge is particularly serious and can carry significant penalties if convicted.
Bond Set at $25,000
After his arrest, Cornejo was transported to the Albemarle District Jail, where he is currently being held. Officials confirmed that his bond was set at $25,000 secured, meaning he must post the full amount to be released.
Information regarding his first court appearance has not yet been released.
Sheriff’s Office Issues Reminder to Drivers
The Gates County Sheriff’s Office used the incident as an opportunity to remind drivers about the importance of obeying traffic laws. Deputies noted that excessive speeding not only endangers lives but often leads to further criminal discoveries during enforcement stops.
“Traffic enforcement remains a key tool in keeping our roads safe and uncovering illegal activity,” officials said in a statement.
Authorities also warned that US 13 continues to be a focus area for speed enforcement due to frequent violations and safety concerns.
Ongoing Commitment to Public Safety
The sheriff’s office reaffirmed its commitment to proactive policing and encouraged residents to report suspicious activity. Officials stated that routine patrols and enforcement efforts play a critical role in reducing drug-related crime and improving overall community safety.
As with all criminal cases, John Cornejo is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Do you believe traffic stops are an effective way to uncover drug-related crimes? Should penalties for excessive speeding be tougher to prevent dangerous behavior on rural highways? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
