SUMTER COUNTY, S.C. — A Sumter man was arrested for possession with intent to distribute marijuana after a routine traffic stop led to the discovery of over 500 grams of the drug hidden in his vehicle, according to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office.
Luke Eugene Taylor Jr., 35, of Moonyhan Road, was pulled over by a Sumter County deputy on Lafayette Drive after being deputies say they observed him driving at a high rate of speed. The deputy, operating an unmarked patrol vehicle, said he noticed a strong odor of marijuana emanating from the car.
A probable cause search was conducted, which deputies say uncovered several packages of marijuana concealed in multiple locations inside the vehicle. The total weight of the recovered marijuana was 528.5 grams.
Taylor was arrested on charges of possession with intent to distribute marijuana. He was transported to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center and later released on a $5,000 surety bond.
The sheriff’s office shared photos of the seized marijuana, as well as the containers used to hide the drug, to highlight how easily everyday items, such as video game controllers or cans, can be mistaken for containers holding illicit substances. Deputies urged parents and children to be cautious and report any suspicious items they encounter.
