In a significant development out of Washington County, Virginia, a resident of Damascus has been detained without the possibility of bail following a traffic stop that culminated in a series of drug-related charges. This arrest comes after an extensive two-month investigation.

According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, officers conducted a routine traffic stop on Sunday, during which they uncovered approximately one pound of methamphetamine, an ounce of crack cocaine, and $500 in cash. James C. Hutton, a 56-year-old man, was driving the vehicle and is now facing multiple charges stemming from this discovery.

• Manufacturing, Selling, Giving, Distributing, or Possessing with Intent to Manufacture, Sell, Give, or Distribute Methamphetamine
• Possession with Intent to Distribute a Schedule I or II Controlled Substance
• Conspiracy to Violate the Drug Control Act
• Possession of a Firearm While in Possession of Certain Controlled Substances
• Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance

Following his arrest, Hutton was transported to the Southwest Regional Jail, where he remains in custody without bond. This led authorities to execute a search warrant at his residence on Klondyke Road in Damascus. The search yielded an additional 250 grams of methamphetamine, an arsenal of firearms including two shotguns, two rifles, and two pistols, along with nearly $6,000 in cash.

This arrest marks a significant breakthrough in a collaborative two-month investigation between the Washington County and Smyth County Sheriff’s Offices, which has been targeting drug trafficking activities in the area.