A routine traffic stop on Highway 27 led to the arrest of a man for possession of suspected methamphetamine, according to a report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputy Ellenburg was on patrol in the area of Highway 27 and 1st Street when he observed a blue Ford Ranger straying over the white solid fog line, with both right-side front and rear tires crossing the boundary. The deputy activated his emergency lights, prompting the vehicle to come to a stop without incident. Upon approaching the vehicle, Deputy Ellenburg identified the driver as Michael Noles. Immediately, he detected a strong odor of cologne mixed with marijuana emanating from the vehicle. When questioned about their whereabouts, Noles stated he and his passenger, Stephen Hensley, were dropping off a friend at Halls Valley Road.

The situation escalated when Deputy Ellenburg noticed Hensley holding a bag containing a white substance, which raised immediate suspicions of methamphetamine. After ordering Hensley to hand over the bag, the passenger hesitated and attempted to conceal it. However, the deputy insisted, and Hensley complied. Hensley later claimed ownership of the substance, asserting that Noles had no involvement. Following this admission, Hensley was taken into custody and placed in the back of the patrol car.

A search of the vehicle did not yield any additional illegal contraband. Michael Noles was subsequently picked up by his sister, Cynthia Dupree, while the Ford Ranger was towed to Luallen’s Tow Service lot. Meanwhile, Stephen Hensley was transported to the Chattooga County Jail without further incident.