Salisbury Police Accuse Man Of Dealing Drugs On Scooter

Police said a souped-up scooter was hauling a whole lot more than a passenger in Salisbury.

They said it was a major moving violation packed with thousands of dollars worth of crack cocaine, marijuana and prescription drugs. Officers said they also found two loaded handguns onboard.

Officer Patrick Schmeltzer said he discovered the drugs and guns when he lifted the scooter’s seat. He was overwhelmed by what he saw, he said.

"I kind of just took a step back. Oh, you know, that's quite surprising! I was quite excited about it, quite excited," he said.

The discovery was made after officers were called to the Travel Lodge on Jake Alexander Boulevard late Wednesday. Schmeltzer said he smelled burning marijuana and began questioning, searching and arresting people.

Titus Vinson, Ryan Cauthen and Veronica McCracken are all charged. Police said Cauthen was a serious dope dealer and was selling to street dealers from his scooter.

Salisbury Deputy Police Chief Steve Whitley said the arrests not only take drugs and guns off the streets but also probably saved some lives.

"That stuff will kill you. If you sell it, somebody's going to get it and it's going to kill them -- that's the bottom line to all of it," Whitley said.

Cauthen and McCracken are still being held in the Rowan County jail. Vinson posted bond Thursday morning.