July 13, 2017 - Shelby County Sheriff Willis Blackwell reports that on Tuesday, July 11, 2017 three subjects were arrested from a traffic stop initiated by Chief Deputy DJ Dickerson on Highway 7 East at FM 2608 in the James Community. During the traffic stop, the driver who was later identified as Andrew Scott Elliott, 34, of Carthage), gave a fictitious name and date of birth and was found to have an outstanding warrant out of Gregg County. The front passenger was identified as a Brandon Curtis Bledsoe, 31, of Joaquin also gave a fictitious name and had an outstanding warrant out of Shelby County. The back seat passenger was identified as Angela Dalton Welch, 55, of Carthage.
During the contact, a clear zip bag containing a crystal-like substance was observed in the passenger floor board area which led to a probable cause search. During the search, approximately 2.55 grams of suspected methamphetamine was seized along with over an ounce of marijuana along with digital scales, individual zip bags and other paraphernalia.
As the investigation continued there were extension cords and Victor brand torches and torch heads also found in the vehicle. It was determined that Panola County Sheriff's Office had received a report about property being taken from a residence. Investigator Del Birdwell, who was assisting Chief Dickerson on the traffic stop, spoke with Panola County Sheriff's Office about the property and the items were recovered and secured for Panola County.
Elliott was charged with Fail To Identify Giving False/Fictitious Information / Fugitive from Justice, Misdemeanor A, POCS >=1g<4g, Felony 3, POM<2oz, Misdemeanor B and warrant out of Gregg County.
Bledsoe was charged with Failure To Identify Giving False/Fictitious Information / Fugitive From Justice, Misdemeanor A, POCS >= 1g<4g, Felony 3, POM < 2oz, Misdemeanor B and Capias Warrant for Failure To Appear on original charge of POCS with Intent to Deliver, Felony 1.
Welch was charged with POCS >=1g<4g, Felony 3 and POM<2oz, Misdemeanor B.
Special thanks for DPS Troopers Taylor Buster and Richard Hill as well as our own Investigator Del Birdwell, Patrol Sergeant Jeffery Gogolewski, Deputy Jordan Long, and K9 “Chapo” for their assistance.
