Wythe County, VA – A simple trespassing complaint at the Spark by Hilton Hotel in Wytheville has unraveled a significant drug and firearm bust, resulting in the arrest of three individuals. The arrests came after police discovered a cache of illegal drugs and a stolen firearm, following the investigation of the trespassing incident on Sunday.
How a Trespassing Complaint Uncovered a Major Drug Operation
Officers responded to the Spark by Hilton Hotel after receiving reports that James Franklin Brumback, 68, of Fredericksburg, and Wyatt Leif Gil, 32, of Roanoke, had violated hotel policies by trespassing. Upon further inspection, police found several bags containing white powdery substances believed to be cocaine and fentanyl in plain sight within the hotel room.
A search warrant was obtained and executed, which led to the seizure of approximately:
- 12 grams of suspected methamphetamine
- 20 grams of Psilocybin mushrooms
- 4 grams of suspected cocaine
The Arrests and Charges Filed
James Franklin Brumback and Wyatt Leif Gil both face multiple charges including three counts of possession of Schedule I or II drugs and possession of stolen property. The investigation expanded when a third individual, 61-year-old Stella Verdaunta Farmer of Atkins, Virginia, arrived at the scene.
Police discovered that Farmer, a convicted felon, was in possession of stolen property and a firearm. A subsequent search of her vehicle revealed a handgun and an additional magazine. Farmer was charged with three counts of possession of Schedule I or II drugs and possession of a firearm by a felon.
Collaboration and Law Enforcement Efforts Behind the Bust
“This is a great example of a seemingly minor complaint leading to a significant drug bust and the recovery of a stolen vehicle and a firearm,”
said Deputy Chief Bryan Bard of the Wytheville Police Department.
“The quick thinking and diligence of our Patrol Officers, combined with the collaborative efforts of the Wytheville Police Department Narcotics Division and the Claytor Lake Regional Drug Task Force, were crucial in bringing this case to a successful conclusion.”
The seized substances are set to undergo forensic laboratory analysis to confirm their nature, while an E-Trace investigation is underway for the firearm.
Key Facts from Wytheville Drug and Firearm Arrests
- Incident occurred at Spark by Hilton Hotel in Wytheville, VA.
- Initial complaint involved trespassing by James Franklin Brumback and Wyatt Leif Gil.
- Illegal drugs discovered include methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, and Psilocybin mushrooms.
- Stolen firearm found in possession of convicted felon Stella Verdaunta Farmer.
- Charges filed: multiple drug possession counts, possession of stolen property, and possession of firearm by a felon.
- Collaborative law enforcement efforts led by Wytheville Police Department and Claytor Lake Regional Drug Task Force.
What This Means for the Wytheville Community
This case highlights how vigilant law enforcement and community vigilance can disrupt illegal drug activities even from minor incidents. It serves as a reminder of ongoing challenges related to drug trafficking and firearm possession in local communities.
Wytheville law enforcement encourages residents to report suspicious activities and assures the public of continued efforts to maintain safety and security in the area.
What do you think about this drug and firearm bust in Wytheville? Have you noticed increased law enforcement activity in your community? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
