Wanted fugitive arrested during Scott County traffic stop, drugs and gun seized

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

SCOTT COUNTY, Mo., (KBSI) – A wanted fugitive is facing multiple new felony charges after a traffic stop on Interstate 55 in Scott County led to the discovery of suspected narcotics and a firearm.

According to the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, a detective stopped a white Chevrolet Tahoe on June 24 after observing it traveling south on Interstate 55 with expired Missouri registration near the 81.6-mile marker.

Investigators said the driver initially gave false identifying information before identifying himself as Rodrelle D. Sanders. Sanders also told the detective he had an active warrant and informed the deputy there was a firearm beside his seat before exiting the vehicle.

A records check confirmed Sanders had two active felony warrants from Dunklin County and that his Missouri driving privileges were suspended.

During an inventory search of the vehicle before it was towed, deputies recovered a loaded Glock 22 .40-caliber handgun beneath the center console and a backpack containing an unlabeled pill bottle with 38 pills weighing about 28 grams. According to the sheriff’s office, Sanders told investigators the pills were ecstasy and admitted he sold them.

Investigators also determined Sanders is a convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms.

The Scott County Prosecuting Attorney charged Sanders with delivery of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of a firearm by certain persons, unlawful use of a weapon, failure to register a motor vehicle, no proof of insurance and driving while suspended. He is being held without bond on the Scott County charges.

Sanders was also wanted on two felony warrants from Dunklin County, including armed criminal action and a probation violation related to a first-degree domestic assault case. He remains in the Scott County Jail.