Man accused of speeding through Eutawville with marijuana

John Henry Johnson III of 401 S. Graham Street, Charlotte, is charged with possession with intent to distribute less than 10 pounds of marijuana and resisting arrest. Eutawville Police Chief Sean Hopkins also cited Johnson for allegedly speeding.

The incident occurred on April 12 just before 3 p.m., according to the incident report.

Hopkins claimed Johnson entered the town limits on Dawson Street speeding 51 mph in a 30 mph zone. He was driving a rented 2023 white Kia.

Hopkins also claims Johnson traveled 50 mph in a 25 mph zone in front of the town’s park on Porcher Avenue.

Hopkins stopped the Kia on Old Number Six Highway.

He claimed he smelled the odor of “fresh marijuana” coming from inside of the vehicle.

Johnson initially denied there was any marijuana in the vehicle but allegedly admitted to having some in the trunk.

Hopkins alleges he and Johnson got into a struggle when Johnson tried to get back into the vehicle.

Hopkins managed to detain Johnson in the apex of the driver’s door and called for backup officers.

An Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office deputy arrived. He helped handcuff Johnson.

Johnson allegedly told police that he “can’t” be arrested, according to the incident report.

Hopkins claims the following items were found in the Kia:

• Approximately 300 pre-rolled THCA joints

• Just over two pounds of marijuana in vacuum-sealed packaging

• $45,000 in cash

• A cellphone

THCA is tetrahydrocannabinol acid. That’s an acidic precursor to THC – or tetrahydrocannabinol – the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, according to National Library of Medicine.

The Santee and Holly Hill police departments also assisted.

On April 14, Orangeburg County Magistrate James Rickenbacker set Johnson’s bond at $17,500. Johnson posted bond a little while later.

If convicted, Johnson faces up to 15 years in prison and a $25,000 fine.