MITCHELL – An Alabama man was arrested Tuesday night in Mitchell following a traffic stop that led to the discovery of suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.
Byron Law, 38, of Mobile, Alabama, faces charges of possession of drug paraphernalia, a Class C misdemeanor, and possession of methamphetamine, a Level 6 felony.
According to an affidavit for probable cause filed by Mitchell Police Officer Jacob McMillen, he initiated a traffic stop on a gray Buick LeSabre at the intersection of Rabbitsville Road and Wade Street on July 1, 2025, at approximately 9:10 PM. The reason for the stop was the vehicle allegedly traveling 56 mph in a 45 mph zone and failing to use a proper turn signal.
Upon approaching the vehicle, Officer McMillen detected the odor of marijuana emanating from inside. After obtaining Law’s information, a records check revealed an active warrant for his arrest out of Alabama. Officer Blackwell of the Mitchell Police Department arrived to assist.
Officer McMillen then asked Law to exit the vehicle and inquired if there was anything illegal inside, to which Law denied. Law then permitted officers to search his vehicle.
As Officer McMillen opened the driver’s side door, a glass object reportedly fell onto the road surface. This object was identified as a glass smoking device. When asked about it, Law stated it had been in the door prior to falling out. Law was then secured in hand restraints and advised of his Miranda warning.
During a further search of the vehicle, assisted by Officer Bell of the Bedford Police Department and his K-9 partner, a small bag containing a white powdery residue was found after falling from the door panel. Sergeant Kuhlman of the Mitchell Police Department conducted a field test on the white residue from the glass smoking device, which presumptively tested positive for methamphetamine. No other illegal contraband was located during the search.
Law was subsequently placed in Officer McMillen’s patrol vehicle and transported to the Lawrence County Detention Center.
A Probable Cause Affidavit outlines the initial findings and allegations that led to an arrest. Criminal charges are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
