A routine traffic stop in St. Lawrence County, New York, resulted in the arrest of two men after authorities allegedly discovered a large quantity of cocaine and nearly $26,000 in cash inside their vehicle, according to the Ogdensburg Police Department.
Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Investigation
The incident occurred on Thursday in the town of Morristown, where deputies with the St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office stopped a vehicle during a traffic enforcement operation. Authorities have not disclosed the exact location where the stop took place.
During the investigation, deputies requested assistance from a police K-9 unit. Officials said the trained narcotics detection dog alerted officers to the possible presence of illegal drugs inside the vehicle.
Cocaine and Cash Recovered
Following the K-9 alert, officers searched the vehicle and reportedly recovered more than seven ounces of cocaine.
According to police, the seized cocaine has an estimated street value of approximately $14,000.
Investigators also recovered $25,875 in cash, which authorities believe is connected to the ongoing drug investigation.
Two Men Taken Into Custody
Following the search, Ogdensburg police arrested 49-year-old Lester McGaw of Ogdensburg and 29-year-old Taymel Harris of Brooklyn.
Both men have been charged with felony drug possession offenses in connection with the alleged discovery of the cocaine.
Court Appearance and Custody Status
McGaw and Harris were arraigned in Morristown Town Court after their arrests.
The court ordered that both defendants be held without bail, and they are currently being housed at the St. Lawrence County Jail while the criminal case proceeds.
Multiple Agencies Assisted
The investigation involved assistance from several law enforcement agencies.
According to the Ogdensburg Police Department, the New York State Police and the St. Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office both assisted with the investigation following the traffic stop.
Authorities have not released additional details about the investigation, including where the cocaine originated or whether additional arrests are expected. The case remains under active investigation.
