Escambia County, Traffic Stop Leads to an Arrest for Drugs and Gun

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Posted by: Staff
Date: Aug 08 2024 7:19 AM

ESCAMBIA COUNTY FLORIDA :On Tuesday August 6, 2024 around 3:00 in the afternoon, a Florida State Trooper clocked a coper Dodge Charger traveling 76 MPH in a 45 MPH zone on Pine Forrest Road. The Trooper initiated a traffic stop and after contacting the driver, he smelled a strong odor of burnt marijuana coming from inside the vehicle. The driver stated he had a medical marijuana card; however, his actions were not consistent with the conversation. Following the arrival of a second Trooper, the two conducted a thorough investigation of the driver and vehicle which provided probable cause to search the vehicle.

The subsequent lawful search of the vehicle discovered 386 grams of cocaine, 188 grams of heroin, 39 grams of marijuana, 3 grams of methamphetamine. In addition to this significant drug seizure, the driver was discovered to be a convicted felon currently out on parole and was in possession of loaded handgun. The driver was arrested without incident and delivered to the Escambia County Jail.

Arrested: Oderious Anthony Merritt, 34-year-old male of Pensacola, Florida

Charges: Possession of a Weapon or ammunition by a convicted felon, Possession of Drugs (meth) with intent to sale, Possession of Drugs (heroin) with intent to sale, Possession of Drugs (marijuana) with intent to sale, Possession of Drugs (controlled substance without prescription). He was also cited for speed and illegal window tint.

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