Anderson County man arrested for hiding meth in vegetable can

Deputies say the suspect fled when they tried to pull him over, leading to a chase and discovery of the drugs.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 7:36pm

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An extreme close-up of a crushed metal vegetable can lid, partially open to reveal the contents, captured in a stark, gritty photographic style that emphasizes the dramatic lighting and textural details, conceptually representing the discovery of hidden drugs.A drug bust reveals the lengths some will go to conceal illegal substances, exposing the ongoing challenges of combating the opioid crisis.Williamston Today

The Anderson County Sheriff's Office in South Carolina arrested a 61-year-old man after finding methamphetamine hidden inside a vegetable can in his Toyota minivan. Deputies initially tried to stop the driver, but he fled, leading to a chase. When they were finally able to stop the vehicle, a search revealed the drugs concealed in the can.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenge law enforcement faces in combating the distribution of illegal drugs, even when suspects attempt to disguise them. The pursuit and eventual arrest also raise questions about public safety and the risks posed by high-speed chases in residential areas.

The details

According to the sheriff's office, deputies attempted to stop the Toyota minivan driven by Welborn Finley, but he drove away. They were eventually able to stop the vehicle along Cherokee Road and Black Road in Williamston. A search of the minivan uncovered a vegetable can containing six plastic baggies of methamphetamine.

  • On April 15, 2026, deputies initially tried to stop Finley's vehicle.
  • The chase and eventual arrest occurred later that same day.

The players

Welborn Finley

A 61-year-old Anderson County resident who was arrested for trafficking methamphetamine and failing to stop for law enforcement.

Anderson County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that pursued and apprehended Finley after he allegedly fled from an initial traffic stop.

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What they’re saying

“This case highlights the ongoing challenge law enforcement faces in combating the distribution of illegal drugs, even when suspects attempt to disguise them.”

— Anderson County Sheriff's Office

What’s next

Finley is currently in jail, and the case will proceed through the criminal justice system. The sheriff's office may also review its pursuit policies to ensure public safety during high-speed chases.

The takeaway

This incident demonstrates the lengths some individuals will go to conceal illegal drugs, as well as the risks posed to the public when suspects flee from law enforcement. It underscores the ongoing battle against the opioid crisis and the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement and the community.