Deputy’s Haw River traffic stop evolves into felony drug charges

A man from Caswell County was arrested on several drug violations this weekend after a local sheriff’s deputy pulled him over for some traffic violations in the town of Haw River.

According to the office of Alamance County’s sheriff, Maurice Dantae Shoffer was initially stopped at the juncture of Isley and Keck roads at about 11:20 p.m. on Saturday for an equipment violation and the improper use of a turn lane.

The deputy who pulled Shoffner over also began to suspect the sobriety of the 33-year-old black male, who hails from 389 Ross Acres, Burlington. At that point, Shoffner allegedly assaulted the deputy and tried to make a getaway on foot. According to the sheriff’s office, Shoffner was nevertheless caught and placed in the back of the deputy’s patrol car.

Meanwhile, a police dog that happened to be on the scene picked up the odor of illegal narcotics, which allegedly led to discovery of cocaine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia in the suspect’s possession.

On account of the contraband, Shoffner has been charged with the felony-level possession of cocaine as well as the misdemeanor possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. The Caswell County resident also faces a felony-level charge for assaulting an officer along with another charge for misdemeanor resistance. In the meantime, Shoffner has received traffic citations for driving while impaired, driving with a revoked licensed, and the improper use of a traffic lane. His bond has been set at $25,000.