WOODLAND – Two agents with the Down East Drug Task Force turned a traffic stop into an arrest for a substantial amount of marijuana here last week.

Northampton County Sheriff Jack Smith reported the arrest of Johnnie Coburn Jr., age 39, of Gates County.

Smith said 4.5 ounces of marijuana were discovered inside a vehicle that Coburn was operating. Drug paraphernalia was also found.

According to Sheriff Smith, Down East Drug Task Force Agents Sledge and White were following up on complaints on July 25 when they encountered a male subject (later identified as Coburn) leave from a known drug area near Woodland.

“A traffic stop was performed and the agents located 4.5 ounces of marijuana in the vehicle,” Smith said.

The Task Force Agents charged Coburn with felony possession with intent to sale and deliver marijuana, felony maintaining a vehicle to store a controlled substance, and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia.

Coburn was also cited for a traffic violation by the agents.

Upon appearing before a Magistrate, Coburn was held under a $3,300 secured bond. He is scheduled to make his initial appearance in Northampton County District Court on Aug. 3.

Sheriff Smith said he commends the Down East Drug Task Force Agents on a job well done.

“The Down East Drug Task Force will continue to follow up on all drug complaints throughout Northampton County,” Smith said.

The Sheriff added that he encourages all citizens to call the Northampton County Sheriff’s Office (252-534-2611) with their concerns and information of all crime and illegal drug activity.