Two people were arrested for illegally possessing firearms and other charges after an officer smelled marijuana during a traffic stop, according to a press release from the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office.

On March 24, 2025 , Cpl. Tyler Gordon conducted a traffic stop on a motor vehicle near Go-Mart in Buckhannon for a traffic violation, the release states. During that stop, Gordon conducted a probable cause search of the vehicle due to the odor of marijuana.

During that search, Gordon found that a Ruger .40 caliber handgun, three digital scales used to package methamphetamine and marijuana, a psilocybin mushroom chocolate bar and approximately 3 grams of marijuana were allegedly concealed in a hidden compartment inside the vehicle’s console.

Packaging materials consistent with the distribution of illegal substances were also located inside the vehicle, the release states.

Celeste M. Cruz, 27, of Morgantown, was arrested and charged with Prohibited Possession of a Concealed Firearm, a felony; Prohibited Possession of a Firearm, a misdemeanor; Possession of Methamphetamine; No Insurance; Window Tint violation; and Open Container of Alcohol, according to the release.

James M. Dash Jr., 40, of Morgantown, was arrested and charged with Prohibited Possession of a Concealed Firearm, a felony; Prohibited Possession of a Firearm, a felony; and Possession of a Controlled Substance.

Both occupants of the vehicle are prohibited from possessing firearms under state and federal law, the release notes.

Cruz and Dash were transported to Tygart Valley Regional Jail to await arraignment by a magistrate.