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Press release from the Eureka Police Department:

Melton

On December 23, 2020, at about 1:30 p.m., a Detective with the Eureka Police Department’s Problem Oriented Policing Team (POP) conducted a traffic stop near H and Russ Streets for a minor traffic violation. The driver was identified as 50-year-old William Mark Melton of Eureka.

The 47-year-old male passenger was found to be on searchable probation for sales of methamphetamine. During the course of the search, Melton was asked to exit the driver seat. Melton repeatedly refused and was ultimately removed from the vehicle by officers and detained in handcuffs. Melton was found to be in possession of a concealed fixed blade knife.

During the search of the vehicle, officers located 22 grams of methamphetamine, two digital scales, metal knuckles, and over $19,500 in cash. Melton claimed ownership of all of the items.
Melton was transported and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility for possession of methamphetamine for sales, transportation of methamphetamine for sales, possession of concealed dirk or dagger, possession of metal knuckles, and delaying a peace officer. The passenger was released at the scene with no charges.

The cash was seized for asset forfeiture by the Humboldt County Drug Task Force.