Traffic stop on US 33 leads to drug arrest – Peak of Ohio

A routine traffic stop Thursday led to the arrest of Ashlee Cunningham, 40, of Knoxville, North Carolina, on a charge of possession of a controlled substance after police discovered several prescription pills and a white powdery substance in her vehicle.

While on patrol, officers saw a white Chevrolet Malibu changing lanes erratically on US 33 without signaling. The vehicle was stopped and the driver, Cunningham, stated that she was driving to Indiana with her daughter for a family birthday party and appeared nervous during the interaction.

When asked if there was anything illegal in the vehicle, Cunningham initially said no. However, she changed her mind about allowing a search after officers called in a Bellefontaine Police Department K9 Pyro to assist.

Upon arrival, K9 Pyro conducted an outdoor reconnaissance and alerted officers to the driver's side of the vehicle. This prompted another search, during which officers found several pill bottles in a purse in the back seat. Cunningham admitted to possessing the items and claimed that she may not have had her name on them because she had snatched them in a hurry before leaving North Carolina.

During the search, two straws were also found that contained a white, powdery substance. Cunningham was arrested for felony possession and taken to the Logan County Jail.

The incident underscores the continued efforts of law enforcement in Logan County to combat drug crimes and ensure community safety. The juvenile passenger was taken to the Logan County Sheriff's Office to await the arrival of a family member.

Cunningham is now charged with possession of a Schedule II drug. The vehicle was towed for further examination.