On Saturday, November 14, 2020, Deputy Aaron Swears conducted a traffic stop for an inoperable headlight. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Stanley Maxwell Jr. (20) of Lake City. During the course of the stop, a strong odor of suspected marijuana was detected by Deputy Swears. Maxwell was also acting suspiciously, as if he were attempting to conceal something. After a probable cause search was conducted of the vehicle, over 46 grams of marijuana was recovered, along with 2 stolen handguns. The hand guns were within direct reach of Maxwell. One of the guns was confirmed to be stolen out of Baker County and the other had been stolen from Gainesville, Fl. Over $500 in cash was also located on Maxell’s person.
“This is an example of how a simple traffic violation can lead to much more,” stated Sheriff Mark Hunter. “Even though law enforcement has had to adapt to overcome many challenges over the last several months, we can assure the public that we are still out here keeping our community safe.”
Maxwell faces charges including: Carrying a concealed firearm, Theft of a firearm, Possession of Drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, and Possession of a controlled substance. He was booked into the Columbia County Detention Facility on a $36,000 bond.
