A Mount Dora man was arrested for giving false information to law enforcement and drug possession after a search revealed hidden drugs and other strange items in his pants.
Police observed 38-year-old James Brandon Strickland riding a bike without a rear red light along Dixie Avenue at around 10:20 p.m. Monday, according to an arrest report from the Fruitland Park Police Department.
The officer conducted a traffic stop and explained the reason for the stop to Strickland, the report said. When asked for identification, Strickland gave a birthday and Social Security number that would later be proven false. He also stated his name was “Brandon Strickland.”
As the officer attempted to identify Strickland, another officer arrived on scene to assist. He asked Strickland if he had anything illegal on him, to which Strickland said he did not and gave permission to check, the report said.
During this, the officer located a large abnormal bulge within Strickland’s groin area that was not attached to his body. This turned out to be about four extra-large unopened Slim Jim beef jerky sticks that extended from Strickland’s waistband down his pant leg, the report said.
A green 305 cigarette container was found within Strickland’s pocket. Inside was a clear plastic baggie containing a crystalized rock substance that later tested positive for methamphetamine. Strickland was detained at that time, the report said.
When advised the Social Security number provided returned to a female, Strickland provided another name, spelled “Brandyn Stricklend,” and another false number that came back female again, the report said.
A further search of Strickland’s person revealed a wallet containing a Sumter County Correctional identification card bearing his real name and date of birth. Strickland then told the officers this was his real identity, which was confirmed through photo ID, the report said.
Additionally, a sunglasses holder containing a clear glass pipe with a circular bubble and white powder residue was located in Strickland’s backpack. This later tested positive for methamphetamine, as well, the report said.
The report noted the backpack contained over 20 pocketknives, collectable coins, an airsoft gun, a large wooden box of baseball cards and other miscellaneous items. Strickland advised these were “family heirlooms” that had been found on his person whenever he had been arrested previously.
It was also discovered that Strickland had several active warrants from multiple jurisdictions, the report said.
Strickland was subsequently arrested and charged with providing a false name to law enforcement, possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was transported to the Lake County Jail with bond set at $5,000.
