Hotel narcotics bust lands two suspects in stafford county jail
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Hotel narcotics bust lands two suspects in Stafford County jail

July 27, 2026
1 min read

Deputies say suspected drugs and paraphernalia were found after responding to reports of impaired individuals outside a hotel

STAFFORD, VA — Two people were arrested on drug charges after Stafford County deputies investigating reports of suspicious behavior outside a hotel allegedly found narcotics and drug paraphernalia in a backpack.

The incident occurred at approximately 12:20 p.m. Thursday, July 24, at the Holiday Inn, 20 Sanford Drive.

According to the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded after receiving reports that two people were stumbling around outside the hotel.

Deputies said one of the individuals displayed signs of impairment, including an inability to stay awake and unusually large pupils. During the investigation, a search of the person’s backpack allegedly uncovered suspected narcotics and drug paraphernalia.

The suspects were identified as Paul Damanda, 57, of Woodbridge, and Brittany Beal, 33, of Manassas.

Both were charged with two counts of possession of Schedule I or II controlled substances.

Damanda was released on an unsecured bond. Beal was held at Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.

The charges are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.


Key Points

  • Two suspects were arrested following a suspicious person investigation at a Stafford hotel.
  • Deputies said narcotics and drug paraphernalia were recovered from a backpack.
  • Both face felony drug possession charges.
Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

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Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News