A malfunctioning stoplight led to the discovery of suspects in possession of controlled substances.

An officer on patrol on June 10, just before 10 p.m. noticed a traffic light was failing to cycle to green, holding up traffic, said Picayune Police Assistant Chief Jeremy Magri.

The patrol vehicle’s blue lights were activated for safety and the officer then proceeded to alert the driver of vehicle in front of him of the situation.

Magri said as the officer approached the vehicle he saw a passenger in the rear of the vehicle, later identified as 21-year-old James Brueggert of 1260 Road 326 lot 5, Perkinston, holding what appeared to be a clear plastic bag in his left hand.

The officer requested to see the bag, which was discovered to contain a green leafy substance believed to be marijuana, Magri said.

Additional inspection into the contents of the bag found several prescription pills identified as Xanax, Magri said.

Bruggert was charged with possession of a controlled substance and the driver was asked to exit the vehicle, Magri said.

A search of the driver, identified as 19-year-old Jodi Sampey II, of Broadridge Dr., Carriere, led to the discovery of a small amount of green leafy substance hidden in his shoe, Magri said.

The find led him to be issued a post arrest citation for possession of marijuana and released on scene, Magri said.