A routine traffic stop conducted by a patrol deputy with the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office early Friday morning resulted in the seizure of a large quantity of suspected narcotics, a stolen firearm, and multiple items commonly associated with drug distribution.
According to authorities, just after 1:00 a.m. on January 30, 2026, a deputy initiated a traffic stop near the Check-Out gas station in Logansport, Louisiana. During the subsequent investigation, deputies located and seized approximately one-half pound of suspected methamphetamine, along with suspected Farmapram (alprazolam) pills.
In addition to the suspected narcotics, deputies recovered a Taurus .38 Special revolver, several rounds of ammunition, two digital scales, small plastic baggies, a grinder, $680 in U.S. currency, and multiple cellular phones.
Sheriff’s officials noted that the suspected meth alone carries an estimated street value exceeding $20,000. All seized narcotics will be submitted for laboratory analysis.
As a result of the investigation, two individuals were arrested and booked into the DeSoto Detention Center.
Brandon Wayne Palmer, 27, of Haughton, Louisiana, faces the following charges: Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearms; Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon; Possession of a Firearm in the Presence of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS); Manufacture/Distribution of CDS II; Possession of a Schedule I CDS; Possession of CDS II; Possession of CDS IV; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Driving Under Suspension; Violation of One-Way Traffic; and License Plate Not on Display.
Alexis Cheyenne Benzinger, 26, of Keithville, Louisiana, was charged with Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearms; Possession of a Firearm in the Presence of a CDS; Manufacture/Distribution of CDS II; Possession of a Schedule I CDS; Possession of CDS II; Possession of CDS IV; and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be filed pending further review and laboratory results.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.