On October 20, 2023, the Randolph County Sheriff's Office responded to the intersection of NC Hwy 62 and Surrett Dr., Trinity, in reference to a welfare check on a male, later identified as Hayes Alexander Hardin, who was slumped over the steering wheel of a vehicle stopped at the intersection.
Upon the deputy’s approach of the vehicle, a strong odor of marijuana and alcohol was emitting from the vehicle and an open bottle of alcohol was observed in the backseat of the vehicle. The vehicle was still running, in drive, with the driver’s foot on the brake pedal. After several attempts to wake Hardin, he moved his legs, and the deputy observed a concealed handgun underneath his right leg. The deputy opened the car door, put the car in park, and secured the firearm. During this time, Hardin woke up and immediately began to contest the purpose of the interaction and initially refused to exit the vehicle upon command.
A front-seat passenger was also asleep and snoring. They were able to wake him, but he also initially refused to exit the vehicle. Several Archdale Police Officers responded and assisted with the passenger.
During a subsequent search of the vehicle an additional, empty alcohol bottle was located underneath the front passenger seat.
An Archdale Officer standing by with the subjects located a bag lying on the ground behind Hardin which contained a white substance that produced a positive test result for the presence of cocaine. He was placed under arrest and consented to a preliminary breath test. He was transported to the Randolph County Detention Center and another breath test was conducted upon arrival. Hardin was taken before the magistrate, who found probable cause for charges of felony possession with intent to manufacture/sell/deliver cocaine, misdemeanor carrying a concealed gun, and misdemeanor driving while impaired. He was issued a $5,000 secured bond and a first appearance was set for October 23, 2023, in Randolph County District Court.
Name of Defendant:
Hayes Alexander Hardin
Age: 24
