Speeding teen wanted on warrant caught with marijuana in car

A Leesburg man was arrested for drug possession after a previous warrant and speeding led to the discovery of marijuana during a traffic stop. 

Police observed the driver of a black Chevrolet sedan, identified as 19-year-old James Jordan, speeding on Picciola Road at 11:31 p.m. Wednesday, according to an arrest report from the Fruitland Park Police Department. He was clocked as going 47 mph in a 35-mph zone. 

The officer proceeded to initiate a traffic stop, but Jordan continued to drive for about a quarter mile before stopping. During this time, a check of the vehicle’s plate revealed that Jordan had an active warrant for his arrest out of Lake County for driving with a suspended license, the report said. 

As the vehicle came to a stop, the officer exited his patrol vehicle and ordered Jordan to do the same. He was detained for further investigation. While speaking with Jordan, the officer smelled the odor of marijuana coming from his person. He admitted to having a couple grams in his car when asked about it, the report said. 

A search of the vehicle resulted in a small plastic baggie containing a green leafy substance being found in the center console. A digital scale with similar leafy residue was found directly in front of the gearshift. Under the driver’s seat, another plastic baggie with more suspected marijuana was located. All 8.5 grams of substance tested positive for the presence of THC, the report said. 

Based on the officer’s findings, Jordan was arrested for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. He received the additional charge of driving with a suspended license (with knowledge) from the warrant and was issued a civil citation for speeding. The Georgia native was transported to the Lake County Jail and released after posting $4,000 bond.