Rowan County traffic stop leads to drug and gun seizures

SALISBURY, N.C., Dec. 15, 2025. Deputies with the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office seized suspected narcotics and firearms following a traffic stop and a related search warrant, authorities said.

Deputies with the Criminal Apprehension Team and the Vice and Narcotics Unit stopped a white Nissan around 12:06 p.m. Dec. 11 in the 1600 block of East Innes Street while acting on a Crime Stoppers tip. The stop followed a motor vehicle violation, the sheriff’s office said.

A probable cause search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a concealed firearm and suspected fentanyl and cocaine in amounts consistent with drug distribution, according to authorities.

Investigators then developed additional information tied to the stop and obtained a search warrant for a local hotel in Salisbury. Deputies executed the warrant and seized more suspected fentanyl and another firearm, the sheriff’s office said.

Christopher Michael Russell was arrested and charged with trafficking in fentanyl, possession with intent to manufacture a controlled substance and possession of a firearm by a felon. Trina Beth Taylor was arrested and charged with possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sheriff Travis Allen credited community tips for helping deputies identify and disrupt illegal activity.

“These arrests demonstrate how Crime Stoppers plays a vital role in solving crime through community cooperation and anonymous reporting,” Allen said in a statement. “The Rowan County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to combating illegal drug activity and removing dangerous weapons from the community.”