Stolen Gun, Suspected Drugs Seized During I-40 Traffic Stop

BENSON – A traffic stop on Interstate 40 in Johnston County led to the arrest of two people after deputies reportedly discovered suspected drugs and a stolen handgun inside their vehicle.

The arrests occurred October 28, just east of the NC 210 interchange.

According to the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy stopped the vehicle and a K-9 alerted to the presence of suspected narcotics.

A subsequent search uncovered 37.1 grams of suspected marijuana, along with additional suspected controlled substances. The other substances were sent to the State Crime Laboratory for analysis. Authorities said additional charges are possible depending on the test results.

Deputies also recovered a Glock 9mm handgun that had been reported stolen to the Durham Police Department.

The two occupants, identified as 45-year-old Rashod Maurice Richmond of Henderson and 20-year-old Mea Alana Dadamo of Roxboro, were taken into custody.

Richmond was charged with possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver marijuana, possession of a stolen firearm, and possession of a firearm by a felon. His bond was set at $100,000.

Dadamo was charged with possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver marijuana and possession of a stolen firearm. Her bond was set at $50,000.

The investigation remains ongoing pending the results of laboratory testing.