An Elyria man was arrested Saturday afternoon after a traffic stop for a seatbelt violation led to the discovery of suspected drugs, including substances that later tested positive for fentanyl and methamphetamine.
According to a police report, the incident happened on March 14, 2026, around 2:00 p.m. near the area of East 9th Street and Middle Avenue. An officer on patrol observed a green Pontiac Firebird traveling northbound and noticed the passenger was not wearing a seatbelt. A traffic stop was initiated.
When the officer approached the vehicle, the passenger, identified as Christopher Alexander, told police he had forgotten to put on his seatbelt. Both the driver and passenger provided identification, and the officer returned to his patrol vehicle to run their information.
While doing so, the officer observed Alexander making several movements toward the passenger-side floorboard. He was then asked to step out of the vehicle.
Police asked Alexander if he had anything illegal on him or inside the vehicle. He initially said no. When asked what he would have if there were drugs on him, Alexander stated “heroin,” according to the report.
He was then detained, and a search was conducted. Officers reported finding cigarette packs containing folded papers with a powdery substance. Additional items were located during a search of the vehicle after consent was given.
The substances were later field tested, showing positive results for fentanyl and methamphetamine, according to police. Each of the tested powders weighed less than one gram.
Alexander was taken into custody and transported to the Lorain County Jail. He was charged with possession of a controlled substance, a felony, along with violating a protection order and possession of drug paraphernalia, according to the report.
The incident was recorded on body-worn and in-car cameras, and the evidence was submitted for further processing.
It is not known at this time if additional charges will be filed.