CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — A routine traffic stop on December 1, 2024, resulted in the discovery of a firearm, suspected methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia, according to a report from the Chillicothe Police Department. The stop, initiated near North Bridge and East Main Streets, remains under investigation as officers await laboratory results and potential charges against a passenger, Toban Byrd.
Details of the Traffic Stop
According to the report, police initiated the stop after observing a gray Toyota commit a traffic violation. The vehicle, which was parked near a residence previously associated with illegal drug activity, contained four occupants, including Byrd. During the stop, an officer observed Byrd allegedly retrieving an item from his pocket and attempting to conceal it in his waistband.
The report states that officers observed a burnt glass pipe in Byrd’s hoodie pocket, identifying it as an item commonly used to smoke illegal narcotics.
Items Recovered
The report details that a probable cause search of the vehicle and its occupants led to the discovery of:
- A small container with a white crystal-like substance, suspected to be methamphetamine, in Byrd’s pants pocket.
- A burnt glass pipe found in Byrd’s hoodie pocket.
- A digital scale with residue located near Byrd’s seat.
- A loaded 9mm handgun with a gold barrel discovered under the driver’s seat. The firearm’s serial number showed no record of being stolen.
Officers also recovered a pill bottle containing an unknown white powder and a clear baggie with white residue.
Byrd’s Alleged Statements
According to the report, Byrd denied ownership of the firearm, claiming another passenger had been seated in his spot before him. He also stated the glass pipe found in his pocket was a THC vape pen. Byrd was informed by officers that charges, including weapons under disability and drug possession, could be filed against him pending the outcome of the investigation.
Next Steps
All evidence seized during the stop has been submitted for laboratory analysis. The case will be reviewed by the Ross County Prosecutor’s Office once the lab results are available. No other occupants of the vehicle were named in the report as facing potential charges.