Man Arrested After Jonesboro Traffic Stop Leads to 140 Grams of Suspected Meth

Officers arrested a man with around 140 grams of suspected methamphetamine during a traffic stop this week in Jonesboro.

While on patrol on May 27, Officer D. Thomas with the Jonesboro Police Department noticed a gray Chevrolet Impala near the intersection of Main and Johnson that showed unconfirmed insurance when checked through ATLAS.

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A traffic stop was conducted, but the officer reported the suspect accelerated at a high rate of speed. He slowed down only to accelerate again. The driver then began swerving from the right lane of traffic all the way over to the left shoulder before the vehicle came to a complete stop.

Then, the driver exited and began running away, the affidavit said. The officer pursued the suspect into a wooded area near a barn. The officer noticed him lowering his arms and continuing to run. He finally caught up to the suspect and took him into custody.

Around this time, Officer Hobbs arrived on the scene and began searching the area where the other officer noticed the suspect lowering his arms. A black bag containing approximately 140 grams of suspected methamphetamine was found. A search of the suspect’s person yielded three grams of suspected marijuana.

Rayford Antonio Pryor, 48, of Jonesboro, was arrested for possession with purpose to deliver greater than 10 grams, a Class A felony, and tampering with evidence, a Class D felony. He also faces misdemeanors for possession, fleeing, and no insurance.

On Wednesday, Pryor appeared before Judge Barbara Halsey, who questioned why the fleeing charge was not also brought as a felony. Bail was set at $100,000 cash or surety, with an ankle monitor required upon release.

His next court appearance is scheduled for June 27.

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.