NORTH CAROLINA — Two men were arrested following a traffic stop on Christmas Eve in Caldwell County, according to the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies said the stop occurred Dec. 24 on Connelly Springs Road after a driver was pulled over for a routine traffic violation. During the stop, deputies reportedly discovered 7.3 grams of a substance believed to be methamphetamine along with digital scales inside the vehicle.
As the investigation continued, deputies said they located an additional 112.1 grams of suspected methamphetamine in close proximity to one of the suspects. The sheriff’s office estimates the total amount of suspected methamphetamine recovered has a street value of more than $17,000.
Jonathan Loven, 50, and Rodney Gragg, 52, were arrested as a result of the traffic stop. Loven has been charged with two counts of trafficking methamphetamine, maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for controlled substances, and contempt of court. He was also served with an outstanding warrant for failure to appear in court on a felony charge. Loven is being held at the Caldwell County Detention Center under a $500,000 secured bond.
Gragg has been charged with two counts of trafficking methamphetamine and maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for controlled substances. He was also issued a $500,000 secured bond.
“Our deputies remain committed to protecting our community every day, including holidays,” Sheriff Kevin Bean said in a news release.
