Traffic Stop Triggers Major Drug and Weapons Bust in Sumter County
A routine traffic stop Wednesday afternoon in Sumter County, South Carolina quickly escalated into a significant criminal case after deputies seized nearly $5,000 worth of illegal drugs and recovered a stolen handgun, authorities confirm.
Sumter County Sheriff’s deputies pulled over a vehicle at the intersection of South Harvin Street and Newberry Avenue on April 29, 2026, citing illegal dark window tinting as the reason for the stop. Upon approaching the car, deputies immediately detected the strong odor of marijuana, prompting a thorough search of the vehicle.
Massive Drug Seizure Includes Methamphetamine, Heroin, and Cocaine Base
Inside the vehicle, deputies found multiple containers holding controlled substances, including methamphetamine and cocaine base weighing between 200 and 400 grams, and heroin estimated between 4 and 14 grams. The quantity firmly points toward trafficking rather than personal use, raising serious legal stakes for those involved.
Stolen Handgun Recovered During Search
In addition to the drugs, officers recovered a handgun confirmed to be stolen. This discovery compounded the severity of charges brought against the driver, Devonte Daquan Tyre Ford, who faces several felony counts stemming from the arrest.
Charges Filed Against Driver: Multiple Felonies Include Trafficking and Firearm Violations
Ford was arrested on multiple charges, including:
- Trafficking in methamphetamine or cocaine base (200-400 grams; second or subsequent offense)
- Trafficking in heroin (4-14 grams; second or subsequent offense)
- Possession of a controlled substance
- Felon in possession of a firearm
- Possession of a weapon during a violent crime
- Possession of a stolen handgun
Law enforcement officials have detained Ford at the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center, where he currently awaits a bond hearing.
Immediate Impact and Next Steps
This arrest highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to disrupt drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession in communities nationwide. The recovery of a stolen firearm during a traffic stop underscores persistent threats to public safety that law enforcement tackles daily.
Authorities emphasize that such busts help remove dangerous drugs and weapons from the streets, potentially preventing violent crimes or overdose tragedies.
Residents in Colorado and across the US should stay alert and report suspicious activity, as traffic stops like this one often reveal larger criminal operations.
What to Watch For
Upcoming court proceedings will determine the full extent of legal consequences for Ford. Meanwhile, law enforcement officials continue investigations to identify possible connections to wider drug trafficking networks.
Sumter County Sheriff’s Office praises officers for their vigilance and encourages the community to stay engaged with local public safety efforts.
Stay tuned to The Colorado Daily for ongoing coverage of major criminal cases and public safety updates nationwide.
