(WNY News Now) – A 40-year-old Cattaraugus County man was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance following a traffic stop on Route 353 in New Albion.

According to the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office, deputies initiated a traffic stop on Route 353 near Sweeney Hill at about 1:24 a.m. Wednesday, September 9.

Following a roadside investigation, the operator, identified as Steven J. Bates, 40, was found to be in possession of suspected illicit drugs, authorities said.

Bates was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree.

He was processed and released with an appearance ticket. Bates is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.

The charge is an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.