Two people from Harlan County were arrested on drug charges after a traffic stop by Middlesboro police officers.

Officers charged William Cox, 37, of Dayhoit, and Misty Russell, 28, of Harlan, with possessing drugs and drug paraphernalia.

Officer Chris Barnes made the traffic stop on Thursday at the BP Station on Hwy. 25. Barnes stated in his report that when he approached the 1995 Toyota Corolla, he smelled a strong odor of marijuana from inside.

Barnes was assisted on the traffic stop by Lt. Eddie Myers. During a search of the Corolla, the two reported they discovered 16 grams of methamphetamine, a bag of marijuana, distribution bags and a set of digital scales.

Both Cox and Russell were arrested and charged with first-degree trafficking in controlled substance (first offense greater than two grams, methamphetamine), buying/possessing drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana.

Cox was additionally charged with three outstanding warrants, operating on a suspended or revoked license, theft of identity of another without consent and rear license plate not illuminated.

Cox was being held without bond and Russell was being held on a $2,500 cash bond at the Bell County Detention Center.