POLK COUNTY – The Polk County Sheriff’s Office PACE (Polk Aggressive Criminal Enforcement) Team recently arrested two men traveling through Polk County who were transporting 5.5 pounds of marijuana, according to sheriff reports.

The arrest was made on Oct. 17 after the PACE Team conducted a traffic stop to investigate a traffic violation.

Cammeren Nathaniel Penny, 19, of Shallotte and Quinton Chandler Churning, 19, of Shallotte were arrested and charged with numerous drug offenses, including possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia, according to the sheriff’s office.

During the traffic stop, Penny and Churning appeared extremely nervous and provided information to officers that was suspicious, according to Capt. Lowell Griffin. The officers used a K9, which alerted on the vehicle. A search of the vehicle discovered THC extract, drug paraphernalia and 5.5 pounds of marijuana. Officers said the suspects had driven to Colorado, purchased the marijuana for approximately $8,000 and were returning to Brunswick County, where they live.

Griffin said although the price of marijuana varies depending on the quality and location, the sheriff’s office estimates the 5.5 pounds would have netted between $15,000-$20,000 in profit.

Penny and Churning have both been released from jail after posting bond, according to the sheriff’s office.