Traffic Stop Nets More Than 14 Pounds of Marijuana

The Berkeley County Drug Enforcement Unit has arrested one man and is seeking another after it seized more than 14.5 lbs. of marijuana in a traffic stop and in the search of a Hanahan home.

Sheriff's deputies arrested 29-year-old Shawn Michael Kowacich on Aug. 25 after a traffic stop and search of his vehicle yielded several sealed bags that tested positive for marijuana, according to Sheriff's Office spokesman Dan Moon.

A related search followed at 7414 Painted Bunting Way, Hanahan, where deputies found an additional six packages that also tested positive for marijuana and $6,000 in cash, as well as drug paraphernalia and other related equipment.

The estimated value for the drugs seized was $64,940, according to Moon.

Kowacich was charged with possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Thirty-one-year-old Brian William Verbarg, of 7414 Painted Bunting Way, is wanted on the charge of trafficking marijuana.