The Columbia Police Department initiated a traffic stop on Hudson Street, Tuesday night, April 4, shortly after 11:30 PM. Contact was made with the male operator and female passenger, male operator was found to have an active warrant as well as a suspended operators license.

Subsequent search of the vehicle yielded findings of suspected methamphetamine and marijuana as well as other narcotics, paraphernalia, and a handgun which had its serial number scratched off.

Vincent Bach, 36, of Columbia has been charged with traffic violations as well as possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, possession of a defaced firearm, and the following felonies; possession of controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance methamphetamine, and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon.

Mercedes Stapleton, 20, of Columbia has been charged with possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of a controlled substance methamphetamine.

Sgt Evan Burton was the arresting Officer. He was assisted on scene by Officer Justin Cross and Deputy Brandon Hitch.