Victorville, CA – A routine traffic stop in Victorville turned into a major drug and weapons seizure on Wednesday evening, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. Deputies say they discovered four pounds of methamphetamine, Ecstasy pills, and a loaded firearm after pulling over a 61-year-old man.
The suspect, identified as Kim Eldridge, was driving a 1994 Toyota Camry when deputies stopped him just after 7:20 p.m. for several California Vehicle Code violations, officials said in a news release.
Drugs Found During Initial Stop
When deputies approached the vehicle, they reportedly found methamphetamine and oxycodone in Eldridge’s possession. This discovery prompted an immediate investigation and search warrant for his residence in Victorville.
Home Search Uncovers Large Stash of Meth
Later that evening, deputies executed a search warrant at Eldridge’s home on the 1600 block of Union Street. Inside, they located four pounds of suspected methamphetamine, multiple Ecstasy pills, and a loaded gun, according to the sheriff’s department.
Authorities believe the drugs were intended for sale, given the quantity and packaging found on the property.
Multiple Felony Charges Filed
Following the discovery, Eldridge was arrested and booked into the High Desert Detention Center. As per KTLA, he now faces several felony charges, including:
- Possession of a controlled substance for sale
- Possession of a controlled substance while armed
- Transportation or sale of methamphetamine
- Felon in possession of a firearm
Officials said Eldridge is being held on $40,000 bail and is scheduled to appear in Victorville Superior Court on Monday.
Sheriff’s Department: Community Safety a Top Priority
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department emphasized that its deputies remain committed to identifying and arresting individuals involved in the illegal drug trade.
In a statement, officials noted that “routine patrol efforts often lead to significant discoveries that remove dangerous drugs and weapons from our neighborhoods.” The department also encouraged residents to report suspicious activity that could be related to drug distribution or illegal firearms.
Ongoing Fight Against Meth Trafficking in the High Desert
The seizure highlights a continued push by law enforcement in San Bernardino County to combat the region’s methamphetamine epidemic. The High Desert area, including Victorville, has seen multiple high-profile arrests in recent months involving large quantities of meth and fentanyl.
Methamphetamine remains one of the most widely trafficked drugs in Southern California, with authorities frequently linking it to organized crime networks and interstate smuggling operations.
Officials say the investigation is ongoing and that more arrests may follow as they trace the source of the drugs and firearm.
Do you think local law enforcement is doing enough to combat the meth problem in San Bernardino County? Share your thoughts in the comments — should penalties for drug trafficking and illegal gun possession be made even tougher?
