Hockley County deputies patrolling in the area of US 62/82 and Owl Road observed a vehicle traveling in the area and witnessed several vehicle violations, Thursday evening.
After conducting a traffic stop, the operator and passenger of an SUV were identified. Upon inspection deputies observed contraband in plain view and developed probable cause to conduct a roadside search.
During the search of the vehicle, officers located several items, including suspected cocaine and marijuana, as well as multiple firearms with one being confirmed as stolen. Based on the obvious observations, both individuals were detained for the suspected offenses.
Later, it was determined one had multiple arrest warrants out of Lubbock County. Both individuals were ultimately arrested for the involvement in suspected narcotics activity and weapons possession.
D’Marcus Carter-Palmer, 24, and Tavadrai Eddington, 23, both of Lubbock, were arrested for charges including, Manufacture/ Delivery of Controlled Substance between four and 200 grams, Possession Marijuana more than four ounces but no bigger than five pounds, Unlawful Carry of Weapon, Theft of Firearm, Unlawful Possession of Firearm by Felon, and warrants out of Lubbock County for Possession of Marijuana under two ounces, and Unlawful Carry of Weapon bond surrenders.
Both were booked into the Hockley County Detention Center without further incident. Carter-Palmer has bonds totaling $29,000, while Eddington’s bonds total $63,600.
Hockley County Sheriff Ray Scifres provided a statement regarding the importance of deputies conducting traffic stops.
“We are asked about why we conduct motor vehicle stops. The primary focus is on safety of those on our roadways,” explained Scifres. “ Once in a while we uncover illegal activity as a part of those contacts, such as suspected narcotics trafficking, weapons violations, intoxication offenses, etc.”
“It is a vital part of our goal of protecting our citizens,” added Scifres. “Now, two guns possessed illegally are secured, and suspected narcotics won’t be in the hands of anyone other than the scientists that will conduct the testing.”