January 23, 2020 4:15 a.m.
A Grants Pass man is in jail after 44 pounds of marijuana were allegedly found in trash bags during a traffic stop early Tuesday.
A report from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office said at 1:30 a.m. a deputy was headed southbound on Interstate Five when a vehicle veered into his lane, nearly hitting the patrol vehicle. The deputy pulled the vehicle over near the Winchester exit and contacted the driver, 42-year old Richard Chalker.
The report said the deputy could see a large bag of marijuana on the floorboard, while talking with the driver. Chalker confirmed that he was on felony probation out of Josephine County for possession and also said that he was driving while suspended. The report said the man’s probation officer asked that he be detained for a probation violation. Chalker was placed in handcuffs.
During a search of the vehicle, two additional trash bags with marijuana were reportedly found in the trunk along with brass knuckles and a taser. Also allegedly located was a bag with 1.5 grams of methamphetamine, several used syringes, and a glass pipe which was in- between the gear shifter and the seat.
Chalker denied all involvement regarding the evidence found.
He was initially charged with two counts of being a felon in possession of a restricted weapon, for unlawful possession of both the meth and the marijuana, and for a probation violation. Chalker remains detained without bail.