On October 9th, 2024, Investigator Shawn Whitford was working with the Sheriff's Office Highway Patrol Unit when he conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 390 in the Town of Avon for NYS Vehicle and Traffic law violations.
Investigator Whitford made contact with the operator, who was identified as 44-year-old Charles Stevens from Hornell NY, and a passenger who was identified as 65-year-old Shawn Murphy also of Hornell NY.
The Investigator observed what appeared to be suspected narcotics in the vehicle. Both suspects were placed under arrest for possession of a controlled substance. When speaking with Stevens, the Investigator observed him conceal more drugs on his person. The drugs were recovered, and both substances found on the scene were later determined to be cocaine.
Stevens was arrested and charged with felony Tampering with Physical Evidence, and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree. Murphy was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree.
Both were transported and turned over to Central Booking Deputies at the Livingston County Jail for processing. Both subjects were issued appearance tickets, as the charges do not qualify for bail under the NYS Justice Reform Act.
