Metropolis man facing gun and drug charges after stop

A Metropolis man is facing gun and drug charges after a traffic stop on Friday. 

Metropolis Police stopped a vehicle driven by 54-year-old Christopher T. Powers on US 45 near 12th Street. A computer check showed the vehicle's registration had been suspended. Powers was told that the vehicle would be towed away after he reportedly could not produce proof of insurance. 

Officers asked Powers if there were any weapons in the vehicle and he is said to have told them no. However, they said when Powers got out of the vehicle a pistol was seen in the door compartment. The pistol was loaded and Powers did not have a concealed carry permit or a Firearm Owners ID card.  

The vehicle was then searched and that allegedly uncovered over 100 grams of marijuana in plastic baggies plus a set of scales. 

Powers was arrested and charged with possession of cannabis with intent to deliver, possession of over 100 grams of cannabis, aggravated unlawful use or possession of a firearm with no Firearm Owners ID card. He was additionally charged with operating a motor vehicle with suspended registration and operation of an uninsured vehicle.