News Summary
During a traffic stop over the Fourth of July weekend, Memphis police seized a significant amount of drugs and firearms. Three suspects were arrested after officers discovered a stolen firearm and nearly 5 pounds of marijuana in their vehicle. The operation underscores the policeโs ongoing efforts to combat drug-related crimes in the community.
Memphis Police Make Major Drug and Gun Bust During Fourth of July Weekend Traffic Stop
Memphis police achieved a significant drug and gun seizure during a routine traffic stop over the Fourth of July weekend, leading to the arrest of three individuals. The operation took place on Saturday evening in the Dixie Heights neighborhood, near East Person Street.
The traffic stop was initiated after officers observed a 2020 Honda Accord running a stop sign. Upon approaching the vehicle, officers detected a strong odor of marijuana emanating from inside. A lit blunt was discovered in the ashtray, prompting law enforcement to conduct a โprobable causeโ search of the vehicle.
During the search, officers uncovered numerous illegal items, including a stolen firearm belonging to a Memphis police officer. The weapon was found to be loaded and was a critical element in the significant bust. Additionally, authorities seized two other firearms: a loaded AR-style rifle that had been reported stolen from Southaven, Mississippi, and a loaded 9mm โghost gunโ that had no identifiable make or model.
In conjunction with the firearms, the police recovered several boxes of ammunition, over 4.8 pounds of marijuana, and a bottle of Promethazine, a prescription medication often misused for recreational drug purposes.
Three suspects were charged in connection with this traffic stop: 18-year-old Deveon Stewart, 18-year-old Eric Danner, and 19-year-old Edtavious Love. They all face multiple charges related to firearm possession and drug trafficking.
Deveon Stewart, identified as the driver of the vehicle, was charged with the following:
- Possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony
- Firearm theft
- Window tint violation
- Disregarding a traffic signal
- Operating a vehicle without a driverโs license
- Marijuana possession with intent to sell
Eric Danner also faced serious charges, including:
- Possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony
- Firearm theft
- Marijuana possession with intent to sell
Edtavious Love was charged with:
- Possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony
- Unlawful weapon possession
- Marijuana possession with intent to sell
Reports indicated that Stewart admitted to being involved in marijuana dealing and claimed responsibility for the items found in the vehicle, including the stolen firearm. In a separate account, Danner waived his Miranda Rights and confessed to ownership of the stolen AR-style rifle.
Following their arrest, Stewart and Love were each released on $40,000 bond, while Danner remained in custody with a bail set at $75,000 as of the time of reporting. The rapid response of Memphis police highlights their commitment to addressing drug-related crimes and illegal firearm possession in the community.
Background
Traffic stops can sometimes lead to unexpected discoveries, as evidenced by this case. The Memphis Police Department has been actively involved in combating crime related to illegal firearms and drug trafficking. The recent bust during a seemingly routine operation underscores the importance of vigilant law enforcement as they work to reduce illegal activities in the area.
Drug-related crimes have long been a concern for cities throughout the United States, with law enforcement agencies implementing strategies to address these issues effectively. The presence of firearms in drug trafficking cases often raises the stakes, making interventions by police even more critical.
The Memphis Police Department aims to continue its efforts in reducing crime and maintaining the safety and security of residents through proactive measures, including traffic enforcement and drug investigations.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 13 Memphis
- Action News 5
- Commercial Appeal
- Fox 13 Memphis
- WREG
- Wikipedia: Drug Trafficking
- Google Search: Memphis drug bust
- Google Scholar: Drug Enforcement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Trafficking
- Google News: Memphis gun bust

Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
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