A statement released by the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office after the arrest of a 32-year-old woman on Interstate 95 did not offer a reason for her initial traffic stop. Deputies reported that they stopped her 2018 Cadillac XTS close to the interstate’s southbound on-ramp in the Wildwood area. Deputies called for a K-9 unit, and the dog reportedly signaled that the vehicle contained narcotics.
A search of the vehicle allegedly produced methamphetamine, heroin and $5,098 in cash. According to a news release from the sheriff’s office, authorities seized 2.21 pounds of methamphetamine and 170 grams of heroin.
After being taken into custody, the woman was charged with maintaining a vehicle as a drug shop, trafficking methamphetamine and trafficking heroin. She arranged for her release from Sumter County Jail by posting bond.
Drug crimes related to heroin could inflict high fines and a prison sentence on someone. A person arrested on drug charges might want legal advice before entering a plea in court. Advice from an attorney may help prevent a person from accepting a plea deal without clear knowledge about the charges and penalties. An attorney may be able to evaluate the evidence and provide an opinion about the strength of the prosecutor’s case. This information might grant a person a better understanding of the situation before choosing between standing trial or taking a plea bargain. Regardless of the person’s choice, an attorney is responsible for advocating for the person’s interests. At a trial, an attorney might strive to cast doubt on the validity of the evidence. If a plea bargain appears to be the best approach, then an attorney may negotiate directly with a prosecutor and work toward getting a reduced charge and light sentence.
Source: Click Orlando, “Florida woman accused of stashing meth, heroin in Cadillac“, Adrienne Cutway, June 25, 2018