Selma Traffic Stop Leads To 12½-Year Federal Prison Sentence

SELMA, N.C. – A traffic stop by a Selma Police detective that uncovered more than four pounds of methamphetamine has resulted in a 12½-year federal prison sentence for a man involved in trafficking drugs along the East Coast.

James Nadel Taylor, 31, of Delaware was sentenced in federal court this week after pleading guilty May 5, 2026 to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

The case began on Jan. 14, 2025, when a Selma Police detective stopped a Kia Optima for following a tractor-trailer too closely.

The driver, identified as Erminio Ferri, was questioned about his travel plans. According to federal prosecutors, the detective noticed Ferri appeared nervous and gave an implausible explanation about where he had been traveling.

Taylor, who owned the Kia, was riding in the passenger seat.

Detectives searched the vehicle and discovered more than four pounds of methamphetamine.

Investigators later determined Ferri and Taylor had traveled from Delaware to South Carolina the previous day to pick up the methamphetamine and were returning to Delaware when they were stopped in Selma.

Selma Police Chief Justin R. Vause said the case demonstrates how an otherwise routine traffic stop can develop into a significant criminal investigation.

“This sentence reflects the outstanding work and dedication of our detectives, whose attention to detail during a routine traffic stop led to the seizure of a significant quantity of methamphetamine and ultimately the dismantling of a drug trafficking operation,” Vause said.

Chief Vause said proactive policing and cooperation with federal agencies remain important tools in combating drug trafficking.

“This outcome sends a clear message to those who seek to traffic illegal drugs through our town and across North Carolina: law enforcement agencies are committed to identifying, investigating, and holding offenders accountable,” Vause said.

“Protecting our residents and preventing dangerous substances from reaching our neighborhoods, families, and especially our children remain a top priority for the Selma Police Department. I am proud of the work conducted by our detectives and grateful for the collaborative efforts of the ATF and the United States Attorney’s Office in bringing this case to a successful conclusion.” 

U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle praised the Selma officer whose observations during the traffic stop helped uncover the drug operation.

“Through one officer’s keen eye for discerning criminal activity, law enforcement sniffed out the drug mule and his Big Shark Bad Boy co-conspirator,” Boyle said.

U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III imposed the federal sentence.

The Selma Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated the case.