According to Sgt. Tony Everett, public information officer with the BSPD, the seizure and arrest were the result of a three-month investigation of the sale of prescription drugs.

“Thursday, at approximately 9 p.m., the Narcotics Unit executed a search warrant at 1502 W. Third St.,” said Everett. “The Narcotics Unit was assisted by the Detective Division of the BSPD and seized 600 dosages of hydrocodone, methadone, valium and Xanax.”

Melvin Mark Stiles, 76, was arrested on charges of possession of a dangerous drug and theft of a firearm.

“A stolen handgun was found at the scene,” said Everett. “Officers also recovered more than $11,000 in cash. Stiles' bond was set at $2,500.”

In an unrelated case, iInvestigators with the BSPD are investigating a shooting that occurred in the 800 block of Creighton Thursday afternoon, according to Everett.

“Officers responded to the emergency room at Scenic Mountain Medical Center at approximately 4:55 p.m. in reference to a gunshot wound,” said Everett. “Officers found that a female subject was being treated for wounds after being shot with birdshot from a shotgun.

“The victim advised she had been at a party and witnessed a domestic dispute between a friend and her boyfriend. The boyfriend was forced to leave the party, after which he went down the street and fired several shots from a shotgun at the residence.”

Everett said no life-threatening injuries were reported as a result of the shooting.

“The victim's injuries were not serious due to the distance of the shots,” said Everett. “She advised others were peppered by pellets but did not wish to pursue the matter. The victim was treated and released. The incident is still under investigation and is not gang related.”

Contact Staff Writer Thomas Jenkins at 263-7331 ext. 232 or by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it