BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. – A routine traffic stop in Berkeley County escalated into a multi-hour search and two arrests after deputies discovered methamphetamine and a firearm inside a vehicle near I-26 and Jedburg Road, according to Berkeley County Sheriff Duane Lewis.
The incident began Tuesday when a deputy pulled over a vehicle for defective equipment and an improperly displayed license plate. As deputies approached, the passenger—later identified as Tyberius Ra Deas—fled into a nearby store, prompting a search effort. The driver, Steven Bruce Benton, remained at the scene, where deputies observed an open container of alcohol inside the vehicle.
A probable cause search revealed a handgun and approximately 15.2 grams of methamphetamine, the sheriff’s office said.
Additional deputies responded to locate Deas, who had fled on foot. Hours later, a tip from a concerned citizen led deputies to his location, where he was taken into custody.
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Both Benton and Deas were arrested and charged with trafficking methamphetamine and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. Deas also faces a charge of evading arrest and was found to have an outstanding warrant from the Summerville Police Department.
Sheriff Lewis commended the swift response of deputies and the assistance from the public. “This case highlights the importance of vigilance and community cooperation in keeping Berkeley County safe,” he said in a statement.
The investigation remains ongoing.
