Georgia Murder Suspect Arrested in South Carolina After Traffic Stop on I-20 Leads Deputies to Drugs, Stolen Items, and Counterfeit ID
FLORENCE COUNTY, SOUTH CAROLINA — What began as a routine traffic stop for speeding on Interstate 20 ended with the arrest of a 22-year-old Georgia man wanted for murder, after deputies uncovered drugs, stolen property, and a fake ID inside the vehicle, authorities confirmed.
According to the Florence County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO), the stop took place last Thursday along I-20. During the encounter, deputies developed probable cause to search the vehicle and discovered multiple pills later confirmed to be Schedule II controlled substances, along with stolen merchandise.
Murder Suspect Identified as Georgia Resident
A passenger in the car, identified as Randall Jakobe Zachery of McDonough, Georgia, was found carrying a counterfeit identification card and several stolen items. When deputies ran his name, they learned Zachery was wanted on an active murder warrant in Georgia, tying him to a metro Atlanta homicide investigation.
Authorities have not released details of the murder case but said they are coordinating with Georgia law enforcement agencies to handle extradition and review his possible connection to other crimes.
Multiple Charges Filed in South Carolina
Zachery now faces a list of felony charges in South Carolina, including:
- Possession with intent to distribute a Schedule II controlled substance
- Possession of stolen goods
- Possession of a counterfeit ID
He is currently being held at the Florence County Detention Center on a $7,558 surety bond, awaiting extradition to Georgia to face the murder charge.
Deputies Praise Quick Action During Stop
The Florence County Sheriff’s Office described the stop as a clear example of how routine patrol work can uncover serious criminal activity.
“This case shows why even a simple speeding stop can be vital,” one deputy said. “It led to taking a murder suspect off the streets.”
No additional arrests were announced, and investigators have not said whether the driver of the vehicle will face charges.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities continue to coordinate with Atlanta-area investigators to confirm Zachery’s involvement in the Georgia homicide and trace the origin of the controlled substances and stolen items found in the vehicle.
For verified updates on this developing story and other major crime reports, stay connected with NapervilleLocal.com for continuing coverage.
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