Two Arrested on Felony Drug Charges Following Traffic Stop in De Queen

DE QUEEN, Ark. — Two men were arrested on felony drug charges following a traffic stop in De Queen, according to an arrest affidavit released by the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities identified the suspects as Sammy Dean Wilson, 63, of De Queen, and Michael Shane Waterbury, 40, of Nashville.

According to the affidavit, a Sevier County deputy initiated a traffic stop along Stilwell Avenue near the railroad tracks after observing a vehicle with a broken taillight. The vehicle was registered to Wilson, who was also identified as the driver.

The deputy reportedly knew Wilson had an active warrant in Sevier County and a suspended driver’s license. Upon approaching the vehicle, the deputy stated he detected the odor of marijuana coming from inside.

Wilson was asked to exit the vehicle and was taken into custody on the outstanding warrant. During a search, authorities reported finding a syringe commonly associated with methamphetamine use in his pants pocket.

A passenger in the vehicle, later identified as Waterbury, was also asked to exit. According to the affidavit, Waterbury admitted to having a marijuana vape device in his pocket.

A subsequent search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered additional items, including a McDonald’s french fry container hidden behind the glove compartment that contained a clear baggie with a white crystal-like substance believed to be methamphetamine. Deputies also reported locating a pipe and another syringe under the passenger seat, along with a separate baggie containing a green leafy substance suspected to be marijuana.

Both men were arrested and transported to the Sevier County Detention Center.

According to the affidavit, the suspected methamphetamine was later weighed at approximately 48 grams. Based on that amount, both Wilson and Waterbury are charged with possession of a controlled substance, a Class B felony under Arkansas law.