A routine traffic stop on Sunday in Hillsborough County turned into a significant seizure of firearms and drugs. After deputies stopped a vehicle for traffic violations near North 15th Street and East Fletcher Avenue, they encountered more than they bargained for, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
The officers got a whiff of cannabis emanating from the car, which permitted them to conduct a probable cause search. Inside, deputies found not only drugs but also a loaded handgun lying with the safety off and one in the chamber, along with an additional firearm concealed in the glove compartment – containing hidden ammunition.
The passenger of the car, identified as Tarelle Stacy, a 35-year-old convicted felon, was arrested and is facing multiple charges including armed possession of cocaine with intent to sell or deliver and felon in possession of a firearm among others. "There is no such thing as a 'routine' traffic stop. Every encounter has the potential to uncover dangerous and illegal activity," Sheriff Chad Chronister asserted in a statement noted by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
During their search, deputies also stumbled across a small arsenal that included a machete, approximately 25 grams of cannabis, 2.8 grams of crack cocaine, and various drug paraphernalia, as stated by the official press release.
At this time, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office indicated that the matter is an active investigation. Further updates are expected to be released through their Public Affairs Office.
