In a Roanoke Rapids traffic stop agents seized approximately 3.7 grams of cocaine while the Hollister arrest involved marijuana, according to a statement by Captain A.M. Harris of the task force.

The Roanoke Rapids stopped occurred around 8 p.m. on Highway 125 near Sheraton Drive after Agent D.J. Epperson stopped a vehicle for a violation.

During the encounter with the passengers of the vehicle Epperson requested assistance and agents C.A. Parker, C. Babb and D.R. Radford and his dog, Tony, responded.

It was not immediately clear why Epperson requested assistance and Harris could not be immediately reached for comment this morning.

Tony made a sniff of the vehicle and made a positive alert for the presence of narcotics.

During the search, the passenger, James Brian Duke, 42, of Highway 48, Enfield, was reportedly found in possession of a bag of cocaine in his sock and another bag in a cigarette box in his underwear.

Epperson arrested and charged Duke for felony possession of cocaine and possession with intent to sell and deliver cocaine. He received a January 17 court date.

The driver was identified as Tracy Wilbanks Lester, 48, of Highway 48, Enfield.  

She was cited for no operator’s license, no insurance and displaying a fictitious registration number plate.  

She has a January 22 court date.

Roanoke Rapids police Master Officer J. Hardy and Officer C. Hagbourne assisted during the search.

Hollister stop

Meanwhile on Friday around 4:30 p.m., Parker conducted a traffic stop for a motor vehicle violation on Highway 561 near Evans Road.  

The vehicle stopped in the parking area of Dollar General.

The driver was identified as Denorris Wayne Nicholson, 30, of Enfield.  

Parker could reportedly smell the odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle.  

Nicholson handed over the marijuana to Parker and was cited for displaying an expired registration number plate and possession of marijuana up to one-half ounce.  

He has a February 24 court date.