BEDFORD – A local man is facing multiple criminal charges after a routine traffic stop on Saturday afternoon led to the discovery of a stolen vehicle and a subsequent arrest.
Cody J. Stannard, 26, of Bedford, was taken into custody on May 2, 2026, following a confrontation with the Bedford Police Department.
At approximately 3:15 p.m., Officer J. Landon Jones observed a black Chevrolet Trail Blazer traveling north on D Street. The officer initiated a stop near 16th Street and Hawthorne Drive after witnessing the driver fail to use a turn signal and discovering that the vehicle’s license plate was not only expired but belonged to a different vehicle—a 2013 Ford Focus.
Upon making contact, Officer Jones recognized the driver as Stannard from previous professional interactions.
When questioned about the vehicle, Stannard claimed he had purchased the Chevrolet two days prior from an individual named Brady Sullivan for $500. However, Stannard admitted he possessed no bill of sale or vehicle title.
The situation escalated when a VIN check through Bedford Police dispatch revealed the Trail Blazer had been reported stolen through the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office. Stannard was immediately detained.
During questioning, Stannard provided inconsistent details, initially stating someone he did not know dropped the car off at his residence and that he had left the cash payment in his mailbox. After being transported to the Bedford Police Department, Stannard invoked his right to an attorney, ending the interview.
Before being booked into the Lawrence County Jail, Stannard informed officers that he was concealing contraband. According to the probable cause affidavit, a hypodermic needle was found in his waistband, along with a container holding empty baggies and Tylenol pills. These items were disposed of at the jail at Stannard’s request.
A search of the stolen Chevrolet yielded several personal items belonging to Stannard, further linking him to the vehicle. Jackson’s Heavy Haul towed the vehicle.
Based on the evidence gathered at the scene, Stannard faces the following charges of theft of a motor vehicle, conversion, and unlawful entry of a motor vehicle. Stannard remains in the custody of the Lawrence County Sheriff.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This article is based on the information provided in the probable cause affidavit and does not represent a final determination of guilt or innocence.
