BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges after a traffic stop.
Just before 4:30 a.m. Wednesday, Barton County Sheriff’s Office deputies stopped a vehicle near the intersection of Northeast 120 Avenue and NE 10 Road north of Ellinwood for an equipment violation, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir.
During the course of the traffic stop, deputies became suspicious and obtained consent to search the vehicle. During the investigation, approximately 29 grams of suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were found in the vehicle. Deputies also located $2,300 in U.S. currency. The suspected drugs, drug paraphernalia and cash were seized by officers.
The driver of the vehicle was arrested at the scene. He was identified as Swen Finnigan, age 39 of Great Bend.
Finnigan was transported to the Barton County jail without incident where he was booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of drug paraphernalia. Finnigan is being held in lieu of a $50,000 bond.