In an overnight stop yesterday in San Mateo, police arrested a 43-year-old man, Leovardo Blancarte of Sunnyvale, for multiple offenses, including drug possession and driving on a suspended license. According to a San Mateo Police Department release, the traffic stop occurred around 2:46 a.m. near N. Amphlett Blvd. and E. Poplar Ave.
Blancarte was pulled over initially due to mechanical violations on his vehicle. Still, the encounter escalated when the officer discovered he was driving on a suspended license. A follow-up search unearthed 94 grams of what is suspected to be methamphetamine, along with a collapsible baton and drug paraphernalia. Since Blancarte is a convicted felon, the presence of the baton could lead to additional legal complications.
The substances and items were packaged in a manner consistent with drug sales, leading to the presumption of intent to distribute. Despite these findings, Blancarte was not booked at the San Mateo County Jail due to health concerns; instead, he was issued citations on several charges, including possession of a controlled substance for sale and possession of a weighted weapon.
Currently facing a myriad of charges: 11378 HS for possession of a controlled substance for sale, 22210 PC for possession of a collapsible baton, 11364(a) HS for possession of drug paraphernalia, and 14601.1(a) VC for driving with a suspended license.
