Police Intercept US Mail Package, Make Arrest

SELMA – A package being mailed through the US Postal Service was intercepted by Selma Police. The person who reportedly mailed the package is now facing criminal charges.

On June 19, a police officer stopped by The UPS Store at 1425 S. Pollock Street as part of their routine walking patrol. The officer said he immediately detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from a box that had just been dropped off for shipping.

Police obtained a search warrant and seized the package. After opening it, they discovered clear bags containing 51 doses of Diazepam, 50 doses of Clonazepam and 56.2 grams of suspected marijuana.

Police reviewed store security camera video and reportedly identified James David Rousey-Pettengill as the person who dropped off the package and paid for express overnight shipping.

Police were easily able to find Rousey-Pettengill because he listed his actual street address as the sender.

A search of his W. Oak Street residence reportedly revealed a small amount of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

During questioning, the 39 year-old man reportedly admitted he shipped the box knowing it contained marijuana but denied knowledge of the prescription pills.

Selma Police arrested Rousey-Pettengill for felony possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana. He was held on a $30,000 secured bond.

The package was reportedly being shipped to an address in western North Carolina.