ST. STEPHEN, S.C. – A routine patrol in St. Stephen led to a serious drug and firearm arrest after Berkeley County deputies say they discovered fentanyl and a handgun during a traffic stop.
According to the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, Michael Bradford Lipsey, 46, of Bay Street, is facing charges of trafficking fentanyl — four grams or more — and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.
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The arrest happened March 18 along Mendel Rivers Road when a deputy on patrol recognized Lipsey and was aware his driver’s license was suspended, officials said. Deputies initiated a traffic stop, but authorities say Lipsey did not immediately pull over.
Once the vehicle stopped, deputies made contact with Lipsey and discovered a clear plastic bag in his pocket. Lipsey reportedly told deputies the substance was heroin.
However, further investigation revealed the substance — weighing approximately 5.46 grams — field-tested positive for fentanyl, according to the sheriff’s office.
During the stop, deputies also recovered a Glock handgun from inside the vehicle.
Lipsey was taken into custody and transported to the Hill Finklea Detention Center.
Sheriff Duane Lewis said the arrest highlights the importance of proactive patrol efforts across Berkeley County.
The sheriff’s office said it remains committed to identifying criminal activity, removing dangerous drugs and illegal firearms from the community, and keeping residents safe.
