Williamson County, Illinois – Two individuals were taken into custody following a late-night traffic stop on Christmas Eve that resulted in the discovery of methamphetamine, cannabis, and drug paraphernalia, according to the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office.
Traffic Stop on Route 148 and Route 13
Deputies with the sheriff’s office initiated a traffic stop at approximately 11:05 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24, near the intersection of Illinois Route 148 and Illinois Route 13. Authorities say the stop occurred after deputies observed a vehicle allegedly disregard a traffic control device.
Once the vehicle was stopped, deputies made contact with the driver and passenger and began a routine investigation into the traffic violation.
Driver Found Without Valid License
The driver was identified by authorities as Gary M. Brown. During the stop, deputies determined that Brown was operating the vehicle while his driver’s license was suspended and that he did not have a valid driver’s license at the time.
According to the sheriff’s office, Brown was taken into custody without incident. A passenger, identified as Leah A. Bean, was also inside the vehicle during the stop.
Probable Cause Search Uncovers Drugs
As the investigation continued, deputies developed probable cause to search the vehicle. Officials say that search resulted in the recovery of methamphetamine, adult-use cannabis, and drug paraphernalia.
Authorities noted that some of the recovered items were found inside the vehicle, while additional items were allegedly connected to the passenger.
Charges Filed Against Both Individuals
Following the search, both occupants were cited on multiple charges.
Gary M. Brown was cited for:
- Possession of methamphetamine (Class 3 felony)
- Possession of adult-use cannabis
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- No valid driver’s license
- Driving while license suspended
- Disobeying a traffic control device
Leah A. Bean was cited for:
- Possession of methamphetamine (Class 3 felony)
- Possession of adult-use cannabis
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
Authorities emphasized that the charges stem from evidence collected during the traffic stop and subsequent vehicle search.
Booking at Williamson County Jail
After being cited, both Brown and Bean were transported to the Williamson County Jail, where they were remanded into custody pending further legal proceedings.
Officials reiterated that all charges are allegations, and that both individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Ongoing Enforcement and Public Safety Reminder
The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office continues to stress the importance of traffic enforcement as a key tool in identifying impaired driving, license violations, and illegal drug activity. Deputies routinely conduct traffic stops to promote roadway safety and address criminal behavior that may otherwise go undetected.
Law enforcement officials say that even minor traffic violations can sometimes lead to the discovery of more serious offenses, underscoring the role of proactive policing in keeping communities safe.
How to Submit Information
Anyone with information related to this incident or other investigations is encouraged to contact the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office at 618-997-6541. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the department’s official mobile app.
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