A simple traffic stop in Henry County, VA ended up becoming a much bigger investigation after deputies came across narcotics and ammunition linked to a suspect out of Ridgeway. At first, it was just a normal patrol stop, but suspicion about drugs changed everything quickly.
The Henry County Sheriff’s Office reported that the stop happened on February 26 near the Travel Inn located on Greensboro Road. Deputies say the suspect, Rodney La-Shay Kimona King, tried to run from the encounter before officers chased him and made an arrest.
Traffic Stop and Attempted Escape
The situation began when deputies stopped a silver Mercury Grand Marquis that was sitting parked near the Travel Inn in Ridgeway. While talking with the driver, the patrol deputy noticed a few things that seemed unusual and began a quick check for possible drugs.
Officials said a narcotics K-9 unit was then brought to the location to assist deputies with the investigation. Before the search could really continue, Rodney La-Shay Kimona King suddenly took off running, apparently trying to escape before officers finished.
Deputies immediately chased after him on foot and caught up with him a short distance away. Authorities said the pursuit ended peacefully with no injuries reported, and King was taken into custody while deputies kept examining the vehicle and area.
Evidence Found During the Investigation
After securing the scene, deputies searched the vehicle and discovered a large quantity of different types of ammunition. Investigators said the amount raised concern because possession of ammunition by a convicted felon is illegal under Virginia law.
During the investigation, deputies also learned the suspect had been staying at the Travel Inn with his juvenile son. Detectives obtained a search warrant for the motel room and entered the location while continuing to gather evidence.
Inside the room investigators located several small plastic baggies containing suspected crack cocaine along with items often associated with street-level drug sales. Authorities say packaging materials like these frequently indicate narcotics prepared for individual distribution rather than personal use.
Child Welfare Response and Criminal Charges
Deputies said the suspect’s juvenile son was inside the motel room when investigators carried out the search warrant. Because a child was present during the investigation, Henry County Social Services arrived at the scene and quickly started looking into the situation.
Officials explained the boy was safely taken from the room and placed with another family member while deputies continued their work. Authorities often contact Social Services when minors are present during suspected criminal activity to help protect their safety and well-being.
After the investigation wrapped up, Rodney La-Shay Kimona King faced several charges, including possession with intent to distribute narcotics, obstruction of justice, and possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. Authorities said he is currently being held at the Henry County Adult Detention Center without bond.
Endnote
Cases like this can begin with something small noticed during a normal patrol shift. Law enforcement leaders explain routine stops sometimes reveal bigger criminal activity, particularly when narcotics and illegal weapons appear together. Investigations like these remain a major part of crime prevention.
Authorities continue asking residents to report suspicious activity in their communities. The Henry County Sheriff’s Office says tips from the public can help investigators notice patterns, prevent more drug distribution, and keep families safer from dangers linked to illegal narcotics.