New York man accused of meth trafficking after Fort Lauderdale traffic stop uncovers drugs cash and firearm

Fort Lauderdale, Florida – A traffic stop in Fort Lauderdale has led to the arrest of a 46-year-old Brooklyn man who police say was carrying methamphetamine, cocaine, cash and a firearm with an altered serial number.

Charles Wilson Pastore was arrested September 3 following a traffic stop near SW 20th Avenue and SW 15th Avenue, according to Fort Lauderdale Police. Investigators later accused him of possessing enough methamphetamine to face a trafficking charge.

The investigation reportedly began during the traffic stop, when a police K9 alerted officers to possible narcotics inside Pastore’s white Mercedes-Benz. Officers then searched the vehicle.

According to the affidavit, the search led investigators to the spare-tire compartment, where they allegedly discovered a black cylinder. Inside it were 16.82 grams of methamphetamine and 1.72 grams of crack cocaine.

The search did not end with the vehicle. Officers also searched Pastore and allegedly found an additional 1.11 grams of methamphetamine and 1.82 grams of crack cocaine. Police said he also had $3,600.75 in cash.

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Investigators then examined a backpack located in the back seat of the Mercedes. Inside, they reportedly found a digital scale with white powder residue, along with another $3,515 in cash.

The backpack also contained a loaded .380-caliber semi-automatic handgun, according to the affidavit. Police said the firearm had an altered or shaved serial number and had a round in the chamber.

The combination of the alleged drug evidence, cash, firearm, digital scale and multiple cellphones became an important part of the investigation. Police said the items led investigators to believe Pastore and the driver of the vehicle were working together to traffic and distribute narcotics.

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Authorities also discovered an issue with Pastore’s identification. Investigators determined that the Florida driver’s license he allegedly possessed was not valid and said it was forged.

Pastore, who is from Brooklyn, now faces several charges stemming from the traffic stop and subsequent investigation. Those charges include methamphetamine trafficking, possession of methamphetamine, possession of cocaine, possession of a forged driver’s license or identification card and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The allegations against Pastore are based on the police investigation and information contained in the affidavit. The charges will now proceed through the court system.