A local  man is facing drug and traffic charges following a late-night traffic stop in Chattooga County, according to an arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies identified the suspect as Shannon Matthew Bennett, 47.

According to the report, the arrest began at about 9:23 p.m. on April 13 when a deputy on routine patrol spotted a dark-colored Ram 1500 traveling north on Highway 27 toward Trion. The deputy reported having prior knowledge that the tag displayed on the truck was not registered to that vehicle and that Bennett’s driver’s license was suspended.

The traffic stop was conducted at Selman Drive at Highway 27.

Authorities said Bennett was identified as the driver and acknowledged that he knew his license was suspended. The report states Bennett then produced what deputies described as the correct license plate for the truck, but officers found that registration was expired and that there was no valid insurance on the vehicle. After Bennett was unable to provide proof of insurance, deputies advised him the truck would be towed and inventoried.

During that process, deputies reported that Bennett became visibly agitated and nervous. The report says Bennett asked to retrieve medicine from his vehicle, but while near the driver’s side area and center console cupholder, deputies became suspicious that he may have removed or concealed something.

According to the report, a deputy then observed a clear plastic bag containing a white crystal-like substance under a cup. The substance was suspected to be methamphetamine. Investigators said Bennett was then placed in handcuffs.

The report also states Bennett later told deputies there was more suspected methamphetamine inside the vehicle and directed them to a pair of pants on the front passenger seat, where another suspected quantity was allegedly found in a pocket.

Bennett was transported to the Chattooga County Jail without further incident.

According to the arrest report, Bennett was charged with:

  • Possession of methamphetamine
  • Driving on a suspended license
  • Removing or affixing a tag for the purpose of concealing identity
  • Expired registration
  • No insurance

As with all criminal cases, these are allegations contained in an arrest report, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.