Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Arrest in Hempstead County

A routine traffic stop on March 17, 2025, led to the arrest of Demetrius Paschal, 34, of Magnolia, Arkansas, after deputies discovered a significant amount of illegal substances in his vehicle.

According to the affidavit, Deputy Jason Johnson conducted the traffic stop on Highway 32 East, where he immediately noticed the smell of marijuana coming from the vehicle. Upon making contact with Paschal, Deputy Johnson’s investigation uncovered several individually packaged bags of suspected marijuana.

As the investigation continued, Deputy Eric Garner, a member of the 8th North Drug Task Force, arrived to assist with the search. During the investigation, Deputy Garner reportedly discovered several packages of pills suspected to be Fentanyl, a powerful opioid, in the vehicle. In addition to the drugs, the deputies seized $241.00 in U.S. currency.

Paschal was arrested and transported to the Hempstead County Detention Center. He was booked on charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance (Marijuana) and Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Deliver. Paschal is also being held on a Parole Revocation Warrant.

The case remains under investigation as authorities continue to address drug-related issues in the area.