Statesville Police Department Makes Drug Arrests Following Traffic Stop

STATESVILLE, N.C. – February 12, 2024 – On February 10, 2024, members of the Statesville Police Department's Criminal Response Team conducted a traffic stop after a vehicle attempted to evade police officers, leading to the arrest of three individuals and the seizure of illegal drugs and firearms.

Officers initiated a traffic stop on a white 2023 GMC Acadia, which was identified as a rental vehicle originating from Winston-Salem, N.C. Upon approaching the vehicle, officers detected an overwhelming odor of marijuana emanating from inside, providing probable cause for a search.

The driver, identified as Jalin Elliott, 20, of Winston-Salem, along with passengers Cortney Phifer, Jr., 22, also of Winston-Salem, and Kesean Saddler, 24, of Harmony, were subsequently detained and searched.

During the search of the vehicle, officers uncovered illegal substances and firearms. Specifically, 846.5 grams (1.86lbs) of marijuana, 6 oxycodone pills, $2,763.00 in cash, and two handguns were seized from the vehicle.

Jalin Amir Elliott

As a result of the investigation, Jalin Elliott was arrested and charged with Possession with Intent to Sell/Deliver Marijuana, Felony Possession of Marijuana, Felony Maintaining a Vehicle, and Conspiracy to Sell/Deliver Marijuana. Elliott was issued a $3,000 secured bond by the magistrate.

Kesean Campanella Sadler

Kesean Saddler was arrested and charged with Conspiracy to Sell/Deliver Marijuana and was issued a $1,500.00 secured bond.

Cortney Sirron Phifer, Jr.

Cortney Phifer, Jr. was arrested and charged with Conspiracy to Sell/Deliver Marijuana. Due to existing bond obligations stemming from unrelated charges, Phifer was detained without the option of bond at the Iredell County Detention Center.

The Statesville Police Department remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community by actively combating illegal drug activity. We appreciate the ongoing support and cooperation of our residents in this effort.

About the City of Statesville
The City of Statesville is truly a diverse community that welcomes new people, new voices and ideas, new industry, and business. We have already made significant investments in our downtown amenities, our business sector, our schools, our infrastructure, and more is on the horizon. We are creating a dynamic future for ourselves as we build on our successful history and the positive energy we experience today, all the while incorporating the values and quality of life that we cherish. To learn more visit www.statesvillenc.net.