VIRGINIA — A Lexington man has been arrested following a drug investigation that led to a pursuit and the seizure of a large amount of methamphetamine, according to authorities.
The Rockbridge County Sheriff’s Office said Jeffery Wayne Saunders, 55, is facing multiple charges.
Investigators with the James River Regional Drug Task Force began the investigation on Feb. 7 in the Vesuvius area after identifying a suspect believed to be a source of methamphetamine entering the county.
Authorities said agents conducted surveillance through Rockbridge County and Buena Vista, where they observed what appeared to be a hand-to-hand drug transaction. A traffic stop was later conducted at South Lee Highway and Fox Hunt Road in the Fancy Hill area.
During the stop, a K9 unit alerted to the presence of drugs inside the vehicle. Deputies said a search led to the seizure of more than 20 grams of suspected methamphetamine and more than $1,800 in cash. The vehicle was also seized, and charges were initially deferred pending lab analysis.
Investigators later received information on Feb. 15 that the suspect was traveling to obtain more narcotics. Deputies attempted another traffic stop after the vehicle returned to Rockbridge County, but Saunders allegedly failed to stop, leading to a pursuit.
During the chase, authorities said Saunders discarded a backpack containing more than a pound of methamphetamine before he was taken into custody without further incident. A search of the vehicle also led to the seizure of an additional 10 grams of methamphetamine.
Saunders is charged with two counts of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, felony eluding, failure to stop at a stop sign, failure to drive on the right side of the highway and reckless driving.
He is being held without bond at the Rockbridge Regional Jail.
Officials said the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges may be filed.
