A Libby man is accused of drug possession following a traffic stop earlier this month.

Duane Michel Benefield, 37, is facing one felony count of meth possession and possessing drug paraphernalia. He appeared in Lincoln County District Court Monday, April 27, and pleaded not guilty.

District Judge Matt Cuffe scheduled Benefield's next court appearance for June 8.

According to the probable cause statement by county sheriff deputy Andrew Smith, he was patrolling on Mineral Avenue when he saw a brown Chevy Tahoe driven by Benefield, who had an outstanding felony warrant for his arrest.

Smith received permission from the accused to search the vehicle where he found four syringes. One appeared to be used and was loaded with a dark substance resembling blood.

A test of the syringe indicated there was meth in it. Smith also reported that Benefield was cooperative and made him aware of the location of three syringes in a pair of blue jeans.

A conviction for drug possession could result in a 5-year prison term while a paraphernalia charge could result in a 6-month jail sentence.