A Maryland man appeared in Tucker County Magistrate Court on felony drug charges following an arrest after a traffic stop in Tucker County. Kathdeem Roderick Sandtiful, 33, of Randallstown, Maryland appeared before Magistrate Riley Barb August 18 for a Probable Cause hearing on one count of Controlled Substance – Manufacture or possession with intent to deliver Schedule I or II narcotic or meth, a felony.
Santiful appeared in court from the Tygart Valley Regional Jail where he is being held on a $75,000 cash only bond. Standardize to the verified correct spelling Madison Crane was also present during the hearing, as was Tucker County Attorney Savannah Hull Wilkins, the arresting officer and the K-9 officer from the Drug Taskforce who were present at the scene.
There were no motions from the State in the case, but the defense did ask to reduce or modify bond. Magistrate Barb denied the motion that was strongly opposed by the State on grounds that Santiful is registered as a sex offender and has a record of assault and attempted burglary.
West Virginia State Police Sgt. Miller testified on the traffic stop. Sgt. Miller said that he was notified by the Drug Taskforce of a potential target entering Tucker County with Maryland temporary tags. The target was being followed by members of the taskforce in unmarked vehicles.
Upon completion of the traffic stop of a black Ford Escape for 73 mph in a 65 mph zone on Route 48, Corridor H, the K-9 unit searched and indicated near the front of the vehicle, according to his handler. An SKS with high power rounds
In total, 3.2 ounces of fentanyl or 88 grams and 24 grams of a cutting agent labeled “monkfruit” was recovered during the search, police testimony revealed. No estimated street value was given, due to the “variable” nature of drugs due to geography. The fentanyl has been sent out for testing.
There were no defense witnesses at the hearing.
The prosecution asked to transfer the case to circuit court and deny the modification of bond. Magistrate Barb said he would not touch the bond and left the $75,000 cash only bond, as is.
The case was found to have probable cause to stand and was transferred to the West Virginia 22nd Circuit Court.
