Crime & Safety

Car Searched Following Traffic Stop, Charges Filed

The latest from the office of Magisterial District Judge Robert Wyda.

A Moon Township man is facing drug charges following a traffic stop in Upper St. Clair.

An officer stated in a criminal complaint filed with district Judge Robert Wyda's office that when driver Samuel Butler Vendeland, 28, turned left on Route 19 from Boyce Road on Dec. 12, he passed his police cruiser and several other vehicles on the wrong side of the road. 

When the officer pulled over the car, he smelled suspected marijuana. 

Find out what's happening in Upper St. Clairwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The Baldwin police K-9 unit was brought to the scene to investigate the smell from outside of the vehicle and then a search warrant was obtained, according to the complaint. 

Suspected marijuana was found in the car, according to the complaint.

Find out what's happening in Upper St. Clairwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Vendeland is also charged with driving with a suspended license.

His preliminary hearing was continued until Feb. 25.

Wyda also heard the following cases on Monday, Feb. 4:

  • The case against Jennifer Mrozek, of Uniontown, was continued 60 days.
  • The case against Kevin Bell, of Mt. Pleasant, was rescheduled for Feb. 25.


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