Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Arrest, Fugitive Detained at Local Store

HARALSON COUNTY, Ga. – A routine traffic stop conducted on January 9, 2026, resulted in the arrest of one man on felony drug charges and the detention of a second individual wanted in another county, according to law enforcement officials.

Deputy Dustin Smith initiated the stop after observing a vehicle traveling without a license plate. The vehicle pulled into the parking lot of a Dollar General store, where the passenger exited the vehicle and attempted to walk toward the store. Deputy Smith issued verbal commands for the passenger to return to the vehicle. After a brief hesitation, the individual complied but refused to provide his name.

Sgt. Travis Short arrived on scene to assist, and the passenger was detained. The driver, identified as Jason Pannell, was asked to step out of the vehicle and was informed of the reason for the stop. Pannell admitted the vehicle was not properly tagged and gave deputies consent to search the vehicle.

During the encounter, Sgt. Short identified the passenger as Mark Wilkins, who was found to have an active felony warrant from another county.

A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a quantity of suspected methamphetamine located beneath the driver’s seat, deputies said.

Pannell was arrested and charged with felony possession of methamphetamine. Wilkins was arrested and charged with misdemeanor obstruction of law enforcement officers and will also face proceedings related to his outstanding warrant in the other county.

Authorities reminded motorists that ensuring vehicles are properly registered, tagged, insured, and operated by licensed drivers can help prevent avoidable encounters with law enforcement.

The case remains under the jurisdiction of local authorities.