Asheville Man Pleads Guilty to Felonies After 2 Traffic Stops Turn Up Drugs

Traffic stop drug discovery.

Asheville Man Pleads Guilty to Felonies After 2 Traffic Stops Turn Up Drugs

The Buncombe County District Attorney’s Office announced that Steven Daniel Opsahl, 46, has pleaded guilty to felony drug charges following two traffic stops in the span of a month, both uncovering significant amounts of illicit substances.

Double Trouble on the Road

Opsahl’s legal troubles began on March 8, 2023, when Asheville police initiated a routine traffic stop due to an expired registration and inspection violation. The authorities discovered that Opsahl had outstanding warrants, leading to his subsequent arrest. During the booking process at the Buncombe County Detention Facility, officials reportedly found a plastic baggie containing 66 grams of methamphetamine that had fallen from Opsahl’s pants.

However, Opsahl’s encounters with law enforcement did not end there. Just over two weeks later, on March 23, 2023, Buncombe County deputies pulled him over for another infraction: driving with expired registration and inspection tags. This time, Opsahl was apprehended for operating a vehicle with a revoked license. Upon searching his car, officers uncovered six grams of fentanyl, further deepening his legal woes.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

Following his arrest and subsequent court appearances, Opsahl appeared before Judge Karen Eady-Williams, who presided over his sentencing. The judge ordered Opsahl to serve an active prison term of 70-93 months and pay a hefty $50,000 fine for his involvement in drug trafficking offenses.

Community Impact

These incidents serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against drug distribution and abuse in Buncombe County and the broader Asheville area. Law enforcement agencies continue their vigilance in combating the flow of illicit substances, working to protect the community from the harmful effects of drugs like methamphetamine and fentanyl.

Conclusion

The case of Steven Daniel Opsahl highlights the serious consequences individuals face when engaging in illegal drug activities. The swift actions of law enforcement officers and prosecutors underscore the commitment to upholding the law and ensuring public safety.