Two South Bend residents arrested in Cass County for drug & firearm charges

CASS COUNTY, Mich. – Two South Bend men were arrested Wednesday after a stolen license plate led to the discovery of drugs and firearms, the Michigan State Police's Southwest Enforcement Team reported.

At 4:30 p.m., troopers from the Michigan State Police Niles Post stopped a pickup truck with a stolen license plate on M-62 Highway in Ontwa Township, police reported.

After investigating, troopers learned that the vehicle was being driven by a wanted fugitive who was a parole absconder from Indiana, reports said.

A search of the vehicle yielded the discovery of over two ounces of crystal methamphetamine, fentanyl, crack-cocaine, 161 Xanax pills, and 1.4 pounds of marijuana, police said.

Troopers also found two pistols in the vehicle, reports said.

The 43-year-old male driver and 18-year-old male passenger, both from South Bend, were taken to the Cass County Jail and face charges that include felon in possession of firearm, carrying a concealed weapon, and drug charges, police said.

Troopers were assisted by Southwest Enforcement Team – West Office detectives at the scene.