The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
The new principal of a high school on Florida’s Gulf Coast was arrested on multiple charges during a traffic stop after the police reportedly found him driving under the influence with drugs in his car.
Just after 1:00 am on August 2, the 40-year-old principal of Leto High School in Tampa was driving his Sedan in the nearby town of Temple Terrace. The vehicle was spotted by officers from the Temple Terrace Police Department, and they performed a traffic stop because they believed he was driving faster than the posted speed limit. According to reports, the driver pulled over without incident.
When the officers interacted with the man, they thought he seemed like he had been drinking alcohol. He was given a roadside sobriety test, but it was reported that he did not do well. A search of his vehicle was conducted by the officers, and when they looked in the center console, they allegedly discovered white powder in five separate baggies. It was reported that when it was tested, the results showed that the substance was cocaine.
The man, who allegedly told the police he drank vodka, was taken into custody and booked into the Falkenburg Road Jail in Hillsborough County. He is facing preliminary charges of possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving under the influence. He was released after posting a $3,500 bond. The man, who had just been promoted to the position of principal at the beginning of the month, was placed on administrative leave by the school district. They also released a statement saying they believe the “allegations are deeply concerning,” and that they plan to provide support to the staff and students.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a DUI or drug offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.