A Roanoke Rapids man was charged this morning with a weapon and drug violation following a traffic stop for an equipment violation.

The stop initiated by Detective C. Batchelor occurred around 1 a.m., according to Roanoke Rapids police Chief Bobby Martin.

Upon interaction with the driver, Dantrick Simmons, a probable cause search of the vehicle was conducted.

Officers located an Anderson Manufacturing AR-15 rifle, a set of scales, and a quantity of Lortab pills.

The rifle had been reported stolen. Simmons is a convicted felon.

He faces charges of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a stolen firearm, and possession of schedule II.

He received a $2,500 bond and an October 6 court date.

Officer J. Melvin assisted.