Traffic Stop Leads to Drug, Gun Arrest With Suspect Facing Class Y Felony

JONESBORO, Ark. — A traffic stop on March 7 resulted in the arrest of a suspect accused of possessing drugs and a firearm, according to a probable cause affidavit from the Jonesboro Police Department.

Officer Bass initiated a traffic stop on a white Kia Forte for improper window tint after observing light transmission at 6%. The driver was identified as Jasmeica Bond, while a passenger in the front seat was later identified as Davarius Jawondz Copeland, 22.

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While speaking with the driver, Officer Bass observed Copeland in the passenger seat. Officer Martin later arrived on scene and, while standing at the passenger side door, observed a baggie of suspected marijuana in Copeland’s jacket pocket and smelled marijuana coming from the vehicle.

Both occupants were asked to exit the vehicle. A probable cause search of Copeland’s person reportedly resulted in officers locating a baggie containing 3.8 grams of suspected marijuana and a water bottle containing brown liquor.

Officers informed the occupants that the vehicle would also be searched. During the search, officers located a black Ruger LCP .380 handgun under the front passenger seat where Copeland had been sitting.

While the vehicle search was underway, Officer Martin observed Copeland walk next to him and toss an item. Officers later located a clear baggie containing 0.4 grams of suspected cocaine where the item had been discarded. The items were seized and logged into evidence.

Copeland was arrested and faces the following charges:

• Simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms, a Class Y felony

• Possession of methamphetamine or cocaine, a Class D felony

• Tampering with evidence, a Class D felony

• Possession of a Schedule VI substance, a misdemeanor

• Possession of an open container of alcohol in a vehicle, a misdemeanor

According to court records, Copeland’s next court date is April 23. Bail was set at $50,000 cash or surety.

A Class Y felony is the most serious non-capital in Arkansas and carries a potential sentence of 10 years to life in prison.

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