Uber Ride Ends In Arrest On Drug And Gun Charges

JOHNSTON COUNTY — An Uber passenger’s trip came to an abrupt end last week when deputies stopped the vehicle and allegedly discovered more than a pound of marijuana and a loaded handgun.

The arrest occurred June 11 during an enforcement operation by the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office SAFE Team and Narcotics Division on Veterans Parkway near Interstate 40.

According to authorities, deputies observed the Uber driver run a stop sign and initiated a traffic stop.

After approaching the vehicle, deputies reportedly detected the odor of marijuana coming from inside the car.

During a subsequent investigation, deputies searched a passenger and allegedly located approximately 1.2 pounds of marijuana along with a loaded 9mm handgun equipped with an extended magazine.

The passenger, identified as 19-year-old Markese McFarland Henry of Finley Landing Parkway in Smithfield, was arrested at the scene.

Henry was charged with felony possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana, misdemeanor possession of marijuana paraphernalia, and carrying a concealed gun.

He was transported to the Johnston County Detention Center.

No charges were announced against the Uber driver.