Francisco Javier Velazquez, 28, of Bethel Church Road in Lincolnton, and Holly Marie O’Dowd, 26, of Juniper Lane in Denver, were arrested by Iredell County Sheriff’s Officers on multiple felony drug charges. Both face counts of possession with intent to sell and deliver marijuana, possession of marijuana, and maintaining a vehicle for the sale or use of a controlled substance. They were also charged with misdemeanor possession of marijuana paraphernalia.
On April 21, a Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a southbound vehicle on Interstate 77 near mile marker 61 for a moving violation. The driver, identified as O’Dowd, and two passengers, including Velazquez, were questioned. Deputies developed probable cause to search the vehicle and found approximately one pound of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.
During the stop, officers also discovered that the other passenger, a 28-year-old Lincolnton woman, had an outstanding warrant for second-degree trespassing.
All three individuals were transported to the Iredell County Detention Center. Velazquez and O’Dowd each received a $25,000 secured bond. Their District Court appearances are scheduled for May 12.
